Audiology/Otolaryngology/issues with ear pressure

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 8/31/2008


Question
For pretty much as long as I can remember, every time I fly on an airplane or dive more than a few feet underwater in a pool, I experience excruciating ear pain. It happens on ascent and descent, and has lasted pretty much the whole flight in the past. None of the solutions I've heard have worked for me. Nothing from swallowing, nothing from chewing gum, nothing from holding my nostrils shut and blowing, etc. I've tried decongestants and I've tried the earplugs. Is there anything I can do to stop this from happening? By the way, when I was very young, 2-4 or so, I had frequent ear infections and had to get tubes put in my ear. I don't know if that has anything to do with it, but I figured i'd include that info.
Thanks so much for your time
-Braden

Answer
Hi Braden,
From what you tell me, it seems you have Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD).  This is frequently the cause for middle ear infections as a child. You need to be evaluated by an ENT.  It's possible that you may need "permanent" tubes. In any case, the ENT will see what is causing your ETD and provide the options for 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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