What causes tinnitus when you have a cold?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
A cold can cause nasal mucosal congestion and tinnitus. The tinnitus is still due to nasal swelling caused by the cold. Alleviating cold symptoms and restoring nasal airflow is the first step. For many people, tinnitus gradually disappears once nasal congestion improves. Post-cold tinnitus might also be neurogenic tinnitus induced by the infection. It may be improved with intake of oryzanol and vitamins.
The common cold is a relatively common condition, especially after getting chilled. When a cold occurs, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) may sometimes easily develop. So, why does tinnitus occur during a cold?
Why Does Tinnitus Occur During a Cold?
A cold can cause nasal mucosal obstruction, leading to ear ringing. The underlying cause of tinnitus is still nasal swelling due to the cold. Alleviating cold symptoms and restoring nasal airflow is key. For many people, tinnitus gradually disappears once nasal congestion improves.
Tinnitus following a cold may also be neurogenic, caused directly by the infection. In such cases, taking oryzanol and vitamins may help improve symptoms. Ensuring adequate sleep during a cold is important for overall recovery. The five senses are interconnected. Because the middle ear is connected to the pharynx, upper respiratory infections can spread inflammation to the middle ear if not properly managed, resulting in otitis media (middle ear infection). Specifically, cold-related tinnitus is often caused by acute rhinitis inflaming the Eustachian tube, creating negative pressure in the middle ear cavity and leading to secretory otitis media (serous otitis media). Symptoms include low-pitched tinnitus, mild ear pain, a sensation of ear blockage or fullness, and temporary relief when pressing on the outer ear.
The likelihood of developing otitis media increases during a cold, which explains why tinnitus may occur. This condition is directly related to fever and eustachian tube inflammation, so there's no need to panic. With timely and appropriate treatment, cold symptoms will subside. We hope this information helps you. Wishing you good health and a happy life!
