9. A Sense of Fullness in the Ears – The Silent Echo
A sense of fullness in the ears often accompanies nasal polyps, manifesting as an uncomfortable pressure that seems to echo in the silence. Initially, this symptom might present itself during altitude changes, such as taking off in an airplane or driving through mountains, and is often confused with the temporary ear popping everyone experiences.
As nasal polyps grow, this feeling of fullness becomes more persistent. It may feel as though water is trapped in the ear, but no amount of tilting or shaking the head relieves the sensation. This constant pressure can affect hearing, making sounds seem muffled or distant. The interference with auditory clarity can be distracting and can impair day-to-day communication.
The pressure in the ears isn’t just a physical sensation; it can also impact balance and spatial orientation, leading to dizziness or a sense of instability. These issues can make it unsafe to drive, work at heights, or even walk in complex environments, drastically altering one’s way of life.
Without proper treatment, the pressure can result in more permanent hearing loss. The impact on one’s social life and mental health due to the difficulty in communication and the isolation that follows can be profound. Hence, the fullness in the ears is more than an inconvenience; it is a call to action to address the underlying cause before the effects become irreversible. (9)
