From the Guidelines
The sensation of ear fullness related to seasonal allergies and congestion is commonly referred to as "eustachian tube dysfunction" or "allergic ear congestion." This condition occurs when seasonal allergic rhinitis causes inflammation and mucus buildup that blocks the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, leading to symptoms such as ear fullness and popping, as noted in the study on the diagnosis and management of rhinitis 1.
Key Symptoms and Associations
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis is caused by an IgE-mediated reaction to seasonal aeroallergens, and its symptoms may include paroxysms of sneezing, nasal pruritus and congestion, clear rhinorrhea, and palatal itching 1.
- Allergic rhinitis is associated with ear fullness and popping, itchy throat, and pressure over the cheeks and forehead, as well as malaise, weakness, and fatigue 1.
Management and Relief
For relief from eustachian tube dysfunction or allergic ear congestion, consider the following approaches:
- Over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10mg or loratadine (Claritin) 10mg once daily can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- A nasal steroid spray such as fluticasone (Flonase) or mometasone (Nasonex), using 1-2 sprays per nostril daily, can also provide relief by reducing nasal congestion and inflammation.
- Decongestants like pseudoephedrine can offer temporary relief but should be used cautiously and not for more than 3-5 days to avoid rebound congestion.
- Simple home remedies include staying hydrated, using a saline nasal spray, trying the Valsalva maneuver, or applying a warm compress on the affected ear to help equalize pressure and relieve the fullness sensation.
From the Research
Ear Fullness Related to Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and Nasal Congestion
- The term for ear fullness related to seasonal allergic rhinitis and nasal congestion is often associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) 2.
- ETD can cause symptoms such as aural fullness, tinnitus, autophony, and hearing loss, and can further lead to middle ear diseases such as otitis media effusion and adhesive otitis media 2.
- Allergic reactions and allergic diseases, including seasonal allergic rhinitis, are closely related to the occurrence of ETD 2.
- The mucosa of the Eustachian tube is continuous with that of the nasopharynx and tympanic cavity, making it reasonable to assume that the immunological basis of the Eustachian tube is similar to that of respiratory allergic diseases 2.
- Eustachian tube obstruction (ETO) can be demonstrated during both early- and late-phase reactions in patients with allergic rhinitis after intranasal challenge with an allergen 3.
- Antihistamines and decongestants may be used to prevent nasal and Eustachian tube obstruction in patients with allergic rhinitis 3.