In this blog, you’ll learn:
- How hay fever and sinus issues affect ear pressure and hearing
- Why seasonal allergies can make you feel dizzy or off-balance
- When to seek help from an audiologist for allergy-related ear symptoms
What Do Spring Allergies Have to Do With Your Ears?
Many people associate hay fever with itchy eyes, sneezing, and sinus pressure, but did you know that spring allergies can also affect your ears? If you’ve noticed your ears feel blocked, your hearing seems muffled, or you’re feeling dizzy during allergy season, you’re not alone.
These symptoms are often overlooked but are very common during the high pollen months of spring. Allergens like grass, dust, and pollen can trigger inflammation in the nose and sinuses, which in turn affects ear pressure and balance.
How Allergies Affect Your Ears
The Eustachian Tube Connection
The Eustachian tube is a small canal that connects the middle ear to the back of your nose and throat. Its job is to regulate air pressure in the ear and drain fluid. When you experience allergy symptoms, this tube can become swollen or blocked due to inflammation.
This can lead to:
- A sensation of fullness or “blocked ears”
- Muffled or fluctuating hearing
- Pressure or popping in the ears
- Temporary hearing loss
Allergies and Balance: Why You Might Feel Dizzy
Our ears also play a key role in balance. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps regulate your sense of movement and stability. When allergies or sinus congestion cause pressure to build up in the middle ear, it can disrupt the vestibular system, causing:
- Light-headedness
- Vertigo (spinning sensation)
- Unsteadiness when walking or moving
Cold vs Allergy-Related Ear Symptoms
Duration of Symptoms
With allergies, symptoms can persist for weeks or even months, especially during high pollen seasons. In contrast, colds typically resolve within 5 to 10 days.
Ear Pressure
Allergy-related sinus congestion commonly causes blocked Eustachian tubes, leading to increased ear pressure. While colds can also cause this, the symptoms usually clear up much faster.
Other Symptoms
Allergies are often accompanied by sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose without fever. Colds tend to include body aches, a sore throat, and sometimes fever.
How to Relieve Allergy-Related Ear Discomfort
If you’re experiencing ear pressure or dizziness during allergy season, try these helpful tips:
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- Manage your allergies with antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy treatments (consult your GP).
- Use a saline rinse to reduce sinus congestion.
- Stay indoors during high pollen days or keep windows closed to reduce allergen exposure.
When to Seek Help from an Audiologist
While most allergy-related ear symptoms resolve with proper allergy management, it’s important to get a professional opinion if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening ear pressure
- Fluctuating or reduced hearing
- Recurring dizziness or balance issues
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
At Candice van Heerden Audiology, we help you understand whether your symptoms are allergy-related or a sign of an underlying ear condition. A diagnostic hearing assessment can help detect any hidden issues and offer peace of mind.
FAQs: Spring Allergies and Ear Health
A: Not usually. But long-term inflammation or blocked Eustachian tubes can lead to complications. If hearing changes last more than a few days, get a hearing assessment.
A: Usually not, but it can be unsettling and raise your risk of falling. If it persists or gets worse, see a professional.
A: A GP can treat allergy symptoms, while an audiologist checks your hearing and balance. For full care, both may be helpful.
Don’t Let Allergy Season Impact Your Hearing
Spring allergies can be more than just a nuisance, they can interfere with your ear health and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing blocked ears, changes in hearing, or dizziness during allergy season, don’t ignore it.
Take the first step toward clarity and comfort.
Book a diagnostic hearing assessment at our Bedfordview or Benoni practice. Our caring team of audiologists is here to help you understand your symptoms and find the best solution.