A fluttering sensation in the ear can be an uncomfortable experience, often likened to the gentle flapping of wings deep inside the ear. While it is generally not a sign of a severe health issue, it can interfere with your hearing and overall comfort, so it’s helpful to explore the reasons this could be occurring and how to manage it.
What Causes Ear Fluttering?
Pinpointing the cause of ear fluttering can be tricky due to a lack of specific diagnostic standards.
However, there are several common conditions that could contribute to this sensation:
- Tinnitus: This is characterized by hearing sounds like ringing, buzzing or fluttering when there’s no external noise. Nearly 10% of Americans experience tinnitus each year. The sounds caused by tinnitus vary, and for some, it can impact the quality of life due to its distracting nature. Treatment might involve using hearing aids, medications or therapies aimed at reducing symptoms.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: The Eustachian tube, which helps equalize ear pressure, can become inflamed or fail to function properly. This can result in sounds such as fluttering. Sometimes this may resolve on its own, but if it persists, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
- Blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure has been linked to hearing loss and tinnitus, which can sometimes be felt as a fluttering in the ear.
- Excessive earwax: An accumulation of earwax can not only impair hearing but may also cause internal ear noises, such as fluttering.
Other conditions, including hypothyroidism, middle ear muscle spasms (myoclonus), Ménière’s disease and even hormonal changes during pregnancy, can also lead to ear fluttering.
Managing and Treating Ear Fluttering
Ear fluttering can affect your health in more ways than just discomfort, so if you experience this symptom while in line for coffee at Good Coffee, it’s important to seek treatment. The specialists at Mt. Hood ENT & Allergy are available to help you understand and treat your hearing concerns. Schedule a consultation with them to explore your symptoms and treatment options further.