Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 9/23/2009

Question
I have had an issue with my right ear for over a week now.  I have pain plus a fullness plus when I hear sound my ear seems to vibrate with the sound so it is kinda distorted. I had this about two months ago for a couple of days but disappeared.  It is very hard to explain but I have a hard time dealing with it. I usually try to avoid sound especially in the medium tones. I am waiting until Oct to see a Dr.  so right now I have to deal with it.  Is there anything to do for it in the meantime.  Thanks in advance.   I do have allergies but they seem to be under control and I believe my acid reflux is effecting my throat.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,
It does sound as if you have Eustachian Tube dysfunction; however, instead of a more common closed tube, yours may be abnormally open or patulous.

Major symptoms of patulous eustachian tube include fluctuating aural fullness, roaring tinnitus synchronous with nasal respiration, audible respiratory sounds, distorted autophony (ie, the abnormal perception of one's own breath and voice sounds) with echoing occasionally severe enough to interfere with speech production, and sensation of plugged ear. Autophony is the most frequent symptom associated with patulous tube. Treatment of this harmless condition is often difficult. A number of different medications are at times successful in alleviating the symptoms. Myringotomy and insertion of a ventilation tube (as described under the surgical treatment of serous otitis media) is often effective.

Hope this helps.
Dr. Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology