Depending on where you live, all year can be allergy season. Allergies can range from minimal to severe and can be brought on by anything from pollen to pet dander. Runny nose and itchy eyes are the symptoms people are most familiar with and can be the first sign that you’re suffering from allergies.
But some will experience enhanced symptoms such as hearing loss, bad balance, and tinnitus. These symptoms are a side effect of added pressure in your inner and middle ear.
Why do Allergies Affect Your Hearing?
Your body produces a chemical called histamine when it senses an environmental allergen. The common itchy eyes and runny nose are the outcomes of this release. Fluid buildup in the inner ear is a less known symptom. The fluid blocks the allergen from going deeper into your ear canal. This fluid creates pressure that can lead to tinnitus, problems hearing, and even loss of balance as your equilibrium is disrupted.
Treatment Solutions For Hearing Loss Caused by Allergies
Allergies can be treated in many different ways. Over-the-counter medications such as Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra are normally the first solution. Minor cases can be effectively managed within a couple of days and initial relief typically starts after the first dose. Long term use of these products is also safe. Other allergy medication can be used temporarily but aren’t suggested as a long term solution because of their potential side effects, these medications include Sudafed, Afrin, and Benadryl.
There are also natural solutions that can be utilized on their own or in combination with over-the-counter medications. These include a Neti pot or saline sprays. In certain situations, even an ordinary hot shower can lead to improvement, especially when combined with a vapor tablet. You can also take steps to change your environment like purchasing an air purifier, cleaning dust off surfaces with a damp cloth, and washing your fabrics with hot water every two weeks. If you have pets and have a problem with pet dander, be sure to bathe your pet regularly.
Already Tried All That?
For some individuals over-the-counter and natural remedies won’t be enough. When none of these methods help over the course of several weeks professional help may be needed. An allergist will determine if you are a good candidate for allergy shots. These shots will be delivered in slowly increasing dosages once a week for up to six months before changing to a monthly shot. These shots work by releasing a small bit of allergen into your system which enables your body to learn how to deal with it. This approach does demand a long-term commitment of up to five years, although, patients tend to feel relief starting at around eight months.
If none of the above methods deliver relief, and you’ve made sure the pressure in your ears isn’t due to an ear infection, then it is time to get your hearing tested.
