Do you feel like your ears are blocked? It can be a frustrating experience that affects your hearing and overall well-being. In some cases, this sensation may be caused by impacted ear wax, which is a common issue that can be easily treated with ear wax removal techniques such as ear syringing and micro suction. However, it is important to be aware that the feeling of blocked ears can also be caused by a condition called eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), which affects approximately 1 in every 100 adults in the UK.
At Medicure Hearing, a private ear wax removal service based in Liverpool, we understand how important it is to identify the underlying cause of blocked ears in order to provide the appropriate treatment. We are run by medical professionals and offer ear wax removal services in the Tuebrook area, as well as home visits covering Aintree, Walton, Old Swan, Crosby, Formby, Southport, Ormskirk, St Helens, Norris Green, West Derby, Maghull, Bickerstaffe, Rainford, Kirkby, Croxteth, South Liverpool, and the city centre.
If you are experiencing symptoms of blocked ears, it is important to seek professional help to identify the underlying cause. ETD is a condition that affects the Eustachian tube, which is a narrow tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This tube is responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ear, and when it is not functioning properly, it can cause the sensation of blocked ears.
Symptoms of ETD include feeling like your ears are underwater or plugged, muffled hearing, and difficulty equalizing pressure when changing altitude (such as when flying or driving through mountains). These symptoms are often mistaken for impacted ear wax, which is why it is important to seek professional help to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to ETD, including allergies, sinus infections, and changes in air pressure. In some cases, ETD may also be caused by a structural issue with the Eustachian tube.
At Medicure Hearing, we recommend trying non-invasive treatments as a first port of call for ETD. This may include using steroid nasal sprays, taking antihistamine tablets, or using a device called an Otovent, which can be purchased on Amazon. Sudafed tablets may also be helpful in some cases. These treatments can help to reduce inflammation in the Eustachian tube and improve its function.
If you have been experiencing symptoms of ETD for a prolonged period of time, it may be necessary to seek further treatment. In these cases, we will refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist who can provide additional treatment options.
In some cases prolonged ETD can not be resolved at home and your ENT specialist may advise a procedure called balloon dilation. This procedure involves inserting a small balloon into the Eustachian tube and inflating it to widen the tube and improve its function. Balloon dilation has been shown to be effective in treating ETD in approximately 70% of patients.
In more severe cases of ETD, it may be necessary to insert small tubes called grommets into the eardrum to equalize pressure and improve hearing. This is typically done under anaesthesia and is a more invasive procedure.
At Medicure Hearing, we understand how frustrating it can be to experience the sensation of blocked ears. That is why we offer a range of ear wax removal and ETD treatments to help you get back to feeling your best. Our experienced medical professionals are based in the Tuebrook area of Liverpool, and we also offer home visits to surrounding areas.
If you are experiencing symptoms of blocked ears, contact Medicure Hearing today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. Our ear wax removal services are safe, effective, and carried out by trained professionals using the latest equipment.
At Medicure Hearing, we pride ourselves on providing a professional and friendly service to all of our patients. We understand that experiencing the sensation of blocked ears can be uncomfortable and even distressing, which is why we strive to provide compassionate and effective care to help you feel better.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing the sensation of blocked ears, it is important to seek professional help to identify the underlying cause. While impacted ear wax is a common issue that can be easily treated with ear wax removal techniques, it is important to be aware that this sensation may also be caused by ETD. At Medicure Hearing, we offer a range of ear wax removal and ETD treatments to help you get back to feeling your best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards better ear health.
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