Audiology/Otolaryngology/ear problems

Advertisement

Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 4/24/2008


Question
I have an ear that is plugged up and also i hear crazy noises in it such as a video game would sound and its getting worse. The doc said it could be my salt intake.What do you know about this ?

Answer
Hi Joe,
This doctor is probably referring to something called "endolymphatic hydrops."  It's a fancy term, I know. In short, there is fluid in the inner ear that is a lot like sea water. Sometimes when you have too high an intake of salt or smoke-cured foods, the fluid starts to expand and press against the bony structure of the inner ear.  This can cause "aural fullness," that is, the plugged up feeling you have, as well as noises called "tinnitus."  Usually you will also have some dizziness and hearing loss. This condition is also referred to as Meniere's Disease.  May I ask, what type of doctor told you this?  Are you having any other symptoms?  Did this doctor give you any treatment?  I suggest that if you haven't seen an Ear specialist that you should.  
Hope this helps.

Harriet B. Jacobster, Au.D.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.