Hearing loss can have many causes, including swelling, inflammation and a build up of mucus. These are also associated with allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions occur when your body triggers an immune system response to something that is not usually a threat, such as pollen. It treats it like it would an infection. Part of this reaction can be the production of chemicals called histamines. These are what cause itchiness, inflammation and mucus production.
Allergic reactions and your ears
Pollen or other allergens can spread through the air and may land close to or even in your ear, triggering an allergic reaction. This means any swelling or inflammation may block the passage of sound from the outer ear to the ear drum. Similarly, pollen may land in your nose, with mucus production and inflammation increasing pressure and blocking the eustachian tube, which runs between your nose and your middle ear. This can cause infections and hearing loss. It could even exacerbate problems with your inner ear, such as Ménière’s disease.
Treatment
Most allergic reactions, particularly when seasonal, are temporary. You may be able to alleviate symptoms until they pass by yawning, washing your ear with a warm, damp cloth that does not enter your ear canal, inhaling steam, or taking antihistamines. An audiologist Cheltenham, such as www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/cheltenham, may be able to offer further advice.
You may experience hearing loss as part of an allergic reaction, but it should not last once the allergen is removed. Until then, you may be able to manage the symptoms.
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