Audiology/Otolaryngology/Constant pressure & popping

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Question
So this just started about three months ago after flying back from my tip to NYC.  It was intermitent until just recently, and even now as I type, I want to plug my nose with my fingers and pop my ears. The mintue I do that, the pressure builds up again. And I have to pop them again; and again, and again. After about at least 2 hours of constant popping the pressure subsides for about 30-60 minutes and then its back to sqaure one. Its a constant on going thing and its affecting my job. It only seems to go away when I am in higher elevation. I.E. Hiking on Mt. Ranier vs downtown Seattle, WA. Is it just me or am I going crazy? I heard about that ear popper machine you need to get from a physician and from a RPh do you tink this would help? Or at least eliminate the problem somehow?

Answer
Hi Jake,
You do not say whether or not you have been evaluated by an ear specialist (ENT).  It sounds as if you are experiencing Eustachian Tube Dysfunction; however, there always exists the possibility that it may be something else.  An evaluation by an ENT and an audiologist can pinpoint the problem.  Once you are diagnosed, then the ENT will prescribe appropriate treatment.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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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

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