Noise in the ears during a cold: causes, treatment, and prevention
About the Symptom
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common symptom that can occur with a cold. In many cases, it is accompanied by nasal and throat congestion, leading to changes in ear pressure. A cold can cause inflammation of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nasopharynx, creating a sensation of noise and ringing in the ears. This condition is often observed in patients with acute respiratory infections, as the viruses causing colds can negatively affect the auditory system and cause temporary discomfort.
In some people, tinnitus may be accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, hearing loss, and fatigue. These sensations usually pass along with recovery from the cold, but if the noise does not disappear or worsens, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to determine whether the onset of tinnitus is related to a viral infection or if the patient has ear problems that require further examination and treatment.
Diseases
Tinnitus during a cold can be a sign of various diseases that affect not only the upper respiratory tract but also the auditory organs. During colds, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat is often observed, which can cause swelling and congestion of the Eustachian tube, connecting the ear and the nasopharynx. This leads to pressure disturbances inside the ear, which in turn results in an unpleasant sensation that many patients describe as noise, ringing, bubbling, or humming.
In addition, tinnitus may be associated with acute respiratory infections such as influenza. They can lead to more serious complications, such as acute otitis media, where infections penetrate the ear, and as a result, the symptom of tinnitus may arise. It is important to note that these manifestations may also indicate the presence of other diseases that require medical attention.
- Acute otitis media
- Sinusitis
- Viral infections (influenza, COVID-19)
- Allergic rhinitis
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
Diagnosis
When a patient presents with complaints of ringing in the ears, especially in the context of a cold, it is very important to conduct a thorough diagnosis. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be associated with various diseases, but its occurrence during a cold often indicates an exacerbation of ear, throat, or nose conditions. The diagnosis begins with a careful examination and history taking to understand which symptoms appeared earlier and how they relate to other manifestations of the illness.
Based on the conducted examination, the doctor may prescribe additional tests. These tests will help identify possible causes of the ringing in the ears and determine the necessary treatment. It is important to remember that ringing in the ears is not a standalone disease; it often signals more serious issues that require medical intervention.
- Complete blood count
- Audiometry (hearing test)
- Otoscopic examination (ear inspection using a special instrument)
- Rhinoscopy (nasal cavity examination)
- CT or MRI of the head and neck (in complex cases)
Which doctor to contact
If you are experiencing such a symptom as ringing in the ears during a cold, it is important not to ignore it, as it may indicate more serious health problems. Usually, in such cases, it is recommended to first visit a therapist who will be able to assess your symptoms and, if necessary, refer you to specialists. Adequate diagnosis and timely treatment can help prevent possible complications related to the auditory system and other body systems.
Depending on the following clinical signs and the underlying disease, the therapist may refer you to an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist), who specializes in diseases of the ear, throat, and nose, or to a neurologist if the ringing in the ears may be related to neurological disorders. These specialists will help determine the exact cause of your condition and prescribe appropriate treatment.
- Therapist
- Otolaryngologist (ENT)
- Neurologist
- Audiologist
- Allergist
Types of Ear Noise During a Cold
Tinnitus during a cold can manifest in various forms, which can vary significantly in intensity and character. Most often, patients describe this symptom as ringing, hissing, or buzzing. These sensations can be both constant and intermittent, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. It is important to note that different types of sounds may signal various processes occurring in the body and the extent of damage to the auditory organs.
Among the most common types of tinnitus during a cold, the following can be highlighted:
- Ringing in the ears: often felt as a high-pitched sound that can be constant or occur at specific moments, for example, after changing head position.
- Sound of water: a sensation reminiscent of flowing water may indicate the presence of fluid in the middle ear, which often occurs in upper respiratory tract diseases.
- Buzzing: a lower and constant sound that can intensify with physical exertion or when tilting the head.
Determining the nature of the noise can assist doctors in diagnosis and selecting the most effective treatment, so it is important to timely report such symptoms when consulting a specialist.
Causes of Tinnitus During a Cold
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common symptom that can occur with colds. One of the main reasons for its occurrence is inflammation of the conducting pathways in the ear, which can happen due to infection. During a cold, the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx swells, which can lead to fluid retention and inflammation, causing disruptions in the auditory system. As a result, patients may feel the presence of external sounds, such as ringing or humming.
Moreover, tinnitus may be associated with changes in pressure in the middle ear, which can also occur during a cold. Blockage of the Eustachian tube due to inflammation can hinder normal ventilation, which, in turn, leads to the characteristic noise. Stress or fatigue factors that may accompany a cold can also exacerbate manifestations of tinnitus.
- Viral infections (e.g., influenza, cold)
- Bacterial ear infections
- Allergic reactions
- Pressure changes in the ear
- Difficulty breathing due to a runny nose
Common Associated Pathologies
Tinnitus occurring during a cold may be a sign of various accompanying pathologies that affect the auditory and respiratory organs. During cold illnesses, inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane of the nose and Eustachian tubes often occur. This can lead to the development of otitis media, characterized by inflammation of the middle ear, which, in turn, can cause ringing or noise in the ears, worsening the patient’s quality of life.
Additionally, against the background of a cold, allergic rhinitis may worsen, leading to increased discharge in the area of the nose and Eustachian tube. This results in poor drainage and potential infections in the ear, which can also manifest as noise. Furthermore, recurrent respiratory infections can provoke the development of sinusitis, where inflammatory processes and fluid accumulation in the sinuses cause pressure and discomfort, which can also be felt in the ears.
- Otitis media
- Allergic rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Inner ear inflammation
- Eustachitis
Expert Opinion
Tinnitus during a cold is a fairly common occurrence, and it is often ignored by patients who do not pay much attention to it. However, specialists in the field of otolaryngology emphasize the importance of consulting a doctor when such symptoms arise. Against the background of a viral infection that accompanies a cold, inflammation of the ears may occur, which, in turn, contributes to the development of tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It is important to rule out more serious pathologies and receive qualified assistance from a specialist.
Experts also note that tinnitus can manifest in various forms – from a faint ringing to a loud buzzing, and this depends on the degree of damage to the auditory system. In addition, some patients may experience additional symptoms, such as ear congestion or hearing loss, which requires a comprehensive examination. Therefore, when experiencing tinnitus, especially in the context of a cold, patients are advised not to postpone a visit to the doctor.
Treatment of Tinnitus during a Cold
The treatment of tinnitus that occurs as a result of a cold requires a comprehensive approach and can vary significantly depending on the cause of this symptom. Usually, tinnitus during a cold is a result of an inflammatory process affecting the ears, nose, and throat. It is important to note that the primary focus should be on treating the underlying cause of the cold, which, in turn, may help reduce or eliminate the tinnitus.
If the tinnitus persists for more than a few days after the other cold symptoms have subsided, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for a more detailed assessment of the condition. The doctor may suggest various diagnostic and treatment methods, including medications, physiotherapy, and in some cases, surgical interventions. It is important to note that self-treatment can lead to undesirable consequences, so any measures should only be taken after consulting a specialist.
- Medication treatment (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Physiotherapy (laser therapy, ultrasound)
- Sound therapy (use of sound masks)
- Surgical methods (in case of structural changes)
- Regular check-ups with an otolaryngologist
Complications
Tinnitus during a cold can be not only an unpleasant symptom but also a harbinger of more serious conditions. Ignoring this symptom and failing to take timely measures may lead to complications related to hearing deterioration and the development of various diseases. It is especially important to monitor the body’s condition in the presence of symptoms such as high fever, purulent discharge from the ears, or severe headache.
One of the most common complications is acute otitis media, which occurs against the backdrop of inflammation of the Eustachian tube and infection penetrating the middle ear. This can lead not only to prolonged tinnitus but also to complete or partial hearing loss. There is also a risk of the infection spreading to adjacent tissues, which can cause more serious problems such as meningitis or mastoiditis.
- Acute otitis media
- Chronic otitis
- Hearing impairment
- Meningitis
- Mastoiditis
FAQ
How to get rid of noise in the ears during a cold?
To get rid of ear noise during a cold, it is important to first eliminate the underlying cause – the illness itself. It is recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment, which may include antihistamines, decongestants, and antipyretics. The use of warm compresses on the ear area and inhalations aimed at alleviating cold symptoms can also help. In some cases, methods for restoring hearing and balancing pressure in the ears, such as special jaw and swallowing exercises, may be beneficial. However, be sure to consult with a doctor before starting any self-treatment.
What are the main causes of tinnitus during a cold?
The main causes of tinnitus during a cold are related to inflammatory processes in the upper respiratory tract and disturbances in the auditory apparatus. A cold can lead to swelling and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, which, in turn, can cause ventilation issues in the Eustachian tube. This results in changes in pressure in the middle ear and the sensation of noise or ringing in the ears. Additionally, the infection can directly affect the ears, causing inflammation, which also leads to tinnitus.
What to do if the ringing in the ears does not go away after a cold?
If the ringing in the ears persists after a cold, it is important not to delay a visit to the doctor. Since this symptom may indicate complications such as inflammation of the auditory nerve or the development of otitis, it is necessary to seek professional medical assistance for diagnosis. The doctor may order various tests, such as an audiogram or MRI, to determine the cause of the discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment. Self-medication in this case may be ineffective and even dangerous, so it is advisable to consult a specialist as soon as possible.
What are the ways to prevent tinnitus during a cold?
Preventing tinnitus during a cold includes several simple but effective methods. It is important to maintain humidity levels in the room to reduce the risk of dryness in the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Regular ventilation and the use of humidifiers can help achieve this. It is also advisable to regularly rinse the nose with saline solutions, which aids in clearing the airways and reducing the risk of inflammatory processes. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid excessive strain on the ears, especially during colds, which may involve being gentle with them when traveling by plane or in mountainous areas. A proper diet, physical activity, and adhering to a sleep schedule also play an important role in strengthening the immune system and reducing the likelihood of disturbances, including tinnitus.