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Question
I am having a rather annoying fluttering feeling in my ear. I have had a cold but am almost over it. I am wondering what I should do... ride it out? Will it just go away by itself or should I go to the Dr.?
Hi Joy,
The fluttering you hear may be caused by contractions of a little muscle in your middle ear. It may or may not go away on its own. Although in and of itself, it is more annoying than anything else, on rare occasions it may signal an underlying neurological inflammation. If it does not resolve on its own - and especially if you have any hearing loss as well - you may want to go to an ENT and have him evaluate you for Myoclonus. Mild myoclonus is usually treated with muscle relaxants to stop the contractions.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
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Answers by Expert:
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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