Symptom 6. Ear Pressure: The Uncomfortable Reality of ETD
If you have ETD, you might experience an uncomfortable pressure in your ear, similar to the feeling you get when ascending or descending in an airplane. This pressure is a result of the malfunctioning Eustachian tube failing to equalize the air pressure inside your middle ear.
This pressure can range from a mild sensation to a heavy discomfort that is hard to ignore. It can wax and wane throughout the day, often exacerbated by actions that change your internal pressure, such as eating, yawning, or exercising.
In some cases, the pressure can be so intense that it leads to temporary hearing loss or distortion. It may also lead to balance problems, as the ear plays a key role in maintaining your sense of balance.
This pressure might also pair up with a throbbing pain or a feeling of fullness, creating a very uncomfortable sensation that is hard to ignore. The constant pressure can significantly impact your daily life, disrupting your concentration and adding to your stress levels.
Ear pressure might be something you associate with diving deep underwater or ascending a high altitude, but it could also be an uncomfortable reality of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. This symptom, although uncomfortable, is a valuable clue about the underlying issue. Pay attention to this subtle, yet tell-tale sign; acknowledging it could be your first step towards relief. (6)
