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Audiology/Otolaryngology/Heightened sounds - Popping ears

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 9/15/2008


Question
Hello, I woke up this morning with the feeling that the tv (yes I left it on last night) was on volume 100 but when i went to lower it, it was only on 13, when i moved it to 9, it was still way too loud.....when I ran the shower I feel like i heard every drop out of the faucet and when i ran the air conditioner, i felt like I heard every mechanism inside move....what is this???? I dont seem sick in any other way, i am a tiny bit woozy when walking, but its infrequent, and it does feel like my ears need to be popped, but i have tried everything, and nothing is making them pop.  
Any help would be amazing.

Answer
It's very possible that you are suffering from a muscle spasm - myoclonus - in the middle ear brought about by the constant loud noise from your TV all night.  This condition would make you very sensitive to noises.  Sometimes it will subside on its own; however, if you notice that the symptoms do not go away in a day or two, I suggest you consult an ENT.
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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