HomeAnswersOtolaryngology (E.N.T)tinnitusWhy do I have a swooshing sound in my ear?

I have a swooshing sound in my ear, which goes off when I change positions. What could it be?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Preetha. J

Published At October 27, 2020
Reviewed AtAugust 24, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

About once a week, I will wake up with a swooshing sound in my ear. When I change positions, it will go away. It never happens during the day. I just got diagnosed with anemia (mild). I have been under extreme stress. I am currently taking Prozac, Ativan, and Nexium.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A swooshing sound or wind-like sound in the ear lasting for more than five minutes is called tinnitus. If less than five minutes, it is not significant. This particular sound you describe can be caused due to a dysfunctional eustachian tube, which is the tube connecting the ear and the nose. Usually, it is more in quiet environments and more noticeable when you are attempting to fall asleep. Crowded and noisy places serve as a distraction and do not let you notice the sound. Medicines do work, but it takes at least a month for them to act, that too the sound will not vanish till two to three months. To avoid this problem, 1. Keep a table fan for white noise when you are trying to fall asleep. 2. Try and distract yourself when you hear the sound. 3. Get a hearing test done. You can use an audiometry application and send me the result. 4. Saline nasal drops and steam inhalation three times a day for seven days. Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shukla Radhika Hiren Hema
Dr. Shukla Radhika Hiren Hema

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

tinnitussound in the ear

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy