Q. I am hearing crackling and popping sound in my ears. Why?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. You need to worry about absolutely nothing as this is a very common treatable entity we come across. You have developed what we call as eustachian tube catarrh, which has developed secondary to nasal inflammation or allergy. The eustachian tube basically ventilates the nose and the ear. In a situation where it does not function, a negative pressure develops in the side of the ear leading to a feeling of Vacuum, ringing sounds, fluid in the ear, and sometimes decreased hearing as well. This can be treated by attempting to open the tube. I suggest you to follow the below steps: 1. Use decongestant nasal drops containing Oxymetazoline or Xylometazoline three drops three times a day for one week. 2. Tablet containing Combination of Phenylephrine and Levocetirizine one tablet two times a day after food 12 hours apart for one week. 3. Do Valsalva exercises. 4. Take steam three to four times a day. 5. Refrain yourself from the use of earbuds. 6. Avoid having anything cold or spicy for the next two weeks. 7. Please take care to avoid dust exposure. All nasal allergies have to be treated in a proper manner, failing which the catarrh will recur. 8. You can consider Duonase nasal spray (Fluticasone Propionate 50 mcg and Azelastine 140 mcg) or equivalent two puffs in each nostril two times a day for six weeks. This typically takes around two to four weeks for things to settle down. Once the nasal allergies have settled down, the fluid in the ear will slowly reduce, and associated symptoms like tinnitus and decreased hearing will disappear. Hope I have answered your query in detail. If there is anything more you need to know or enquire, do let us know, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Bhadragiri Vageesh Padiyar

Experience: 11 + Yrs

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

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