As allergy season blankets the region, many are familiar with the sneezing fits and sinus troubles that accompany it. However, for some, these seasonal allergies can also manifest as a peculiar sensation in the ears. Oran Spitzer recently conversed with a local Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to delve into this curious phenomenon.
Dr. Michael Decicco, an Otolaryngologist at URMC, sheds light on the matter, stating, “People might experience more than just, say, true hearing loss; they may feel a sense of fullness in the ear or perhaps pressure.”
Specializing in allergies, Dr. Decicco explains that while allergies can indeed lead to symptoms like hearing impairment or ear congestion, sufferers shouldn’t immediately attribute all such symptoms to allergies alone, as there could be other underlying causes at play.
He elaborates, “These symptoms can occur due to various reasons, including viral infections. This is one reason why ENT specialists have a keen interest in allergies because many conditions affecting the head and neck fall under our purview.”
Given the prevalence of pollen during allergy season, effective treatment options are available for those experiencing such symptoms.
“In general, effective allergy treatment involves utilizing tools such as nasal sprays, particularly nasal steroids, and possibly antihistamines,” Dr. Decicco advises.
Therefore, if individuals find themselves grappling with unusual sensations in their ears, Dr. Decicco recommends seeking medical advice before drawing conclusions, as a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional can provide clarity and guide appropriate treatment.
