Audiology/Otolaryngology/Tinnitus Louder

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 8/13/2009


Question
Hi,

I got a cold on the 29th June and it really affected my ears, they were blocked and i couldn't hear properly, on 6th August, they started clearing up.
From that day the tinnitus, I have in both ears is louder than ever, plus when I eat or drink sometimes my right ear will get like an echo when I talk, but not when I listen to other people.

I have had my ears checked and the doctor said they were ok and the tinnitus should go back to how it was.

Does that sound right or could they have missed something?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Nicola,
Were you evaluated by an ear specialist?  And did you have your hearing evaluated by an audiologist?  If not, that should be your next step.  The echo sensation when you speak is a sign of Eustachian Tube dysfunction, which can follow a cold or upper respiratory infection.  Usually it clears when the virus clears, but sometimes the tube remains dysfunctional.  If this is the case, you will be prone to a middle ear infection.  This could also alter the way you hear the tinnitus.

Hope this helps.
Dr. 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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