During allergy season, symptoms of hearing loss may be typical, just like itchy eyes and a runny nose. Your weakened hearing can possibly be caused by your allergies.
According to experts in hearing health, signs of an allergy-related hearing loss may include itchiness, swelling, dizziness, and ear fullness.
Your immune system produces antibodies that release histamine in response to allergens. An allergic reaction results from the release of histamine. Sneezing, itching, and congestion lead to increased mucus production, which can briefly impair hearing.
Spring allergies can also seem worse due to the presence of humid air and barometric weather fluctuations.
Find out more about how allergies can affect your hearing in the section below.
How Allergies Can Cause Hearing Loss
When something such as fluid or earwax blocks the passage of sound waves through the ear and into the small bones of the middle ear, conductive hearing loss develops. Although conductive hearing loss is treatable, it impairs hearing temporarily.
Scratching an itch by inserting anything like a hairpin or cotton swab into your ear canal is never a smart idea. Instead, gently wash your ear with a warm, wrung-out washcloth before thoroughly drying it.
Consult a physician if that is ineffective. They will be able to clean your ear and inspect it to determine what is causing your itchy ears.
Three Forms of Hearing Loss Associated with Allergies
Allergies can impact any of the three main regions of your ear. Itching and swelling of the outer ear and ear canal can be brought on by allergic skin reactions.
Some people can be allergic to laundry detergent, perfume, or earrings. Some may be allergic to domestic pets, particularly dogs and cats.
Your Eustachian tube won’t be able to drain correctly if swelling obstructs the aperture to your middle ear. This can build up fluid and pressure, giving you the impression that your ear is full and creating the ideal environment for germs to flourish and lead to an infection.
You may experience vertigo and other balance issues as a result of this fluid buildup, which will make you feel lightheaded and dizzy.
For those who have Meniere’s disease, allergies may also be a factor in hearing loss.
Hearing Aids and Allergies
Allergens can aggravate your discomfort while also clogging the microphone ports in your hearing aids, which will alter how well they work. The covers for microphone ports are simple to swap out.
Remember to clean your hearing aids regularly, especially during allergy season. Itchy ears from hearing aids may be treated by your hearing healthcare professional.
Some individuals appear to react allergically to their hearing aids. Talk to your hearing health professional if this is the case. Poor fit, moisture in the ear, wax buildup, dry skin, or an allergy to the earmold or dome material can all contribute to allergies.
Many hearing aid manufacturers provide hypoallergenic shell materials or coatings that offer comfort for those with sensitive ears.
Conclusion
For many people who have symptoms, seasonal allergies can make certain seasons of the year challenging. Allergy discomfort, including any hearing loss you may suffer, is just momentary most of the time.
After your symptoms go away or your illness clears up, normal hearing normally returns. See your hearing care specialist or ENT to be sure your condition doesn’t require long-term therapy if your hearing loss lasts past your other allergy symptoms.
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