Clogged sinuses are tedious to deal with, and sometimes they hurt as well. As soon as they clear out, you’ll notice your mood improving. You’ll probably sleep better, too.
But did you know that having clear sinuses can help prevent hearing loss?
Pressure Problems
You’ve probably experienced that blowing your nose creates a pressure in your ears. This is because of your Eustachian tube, which connects your ears and your respiratory organs. Its purpose is to drain your middle ear of built-up fluids and regulate the pressure there.
When your sinuses are inflamed, it can block your Eustachian tube. Thus, your middle ear can’t function the way it’s supposed to. Any sound you hear will get distorted.
Are There Any Long-Term Effects?
In most cases, this kind of hearing loss is temporary. However, permanent damage is possible. A sinus infection can easily turn into an ear infection.
When both types of infection are present, the pressure can puncture your eardrum or damage the small bones in your middle ear. This will disrupt your balance. There is a small possibility of total hearing loss as well.
Clear Your Sinuses
It’s obvious that having clear sinuses can help prevent hearing loss and some other complications. So what should you do if they clog up?
- Get over-the-counter medication, such as a nasal spray.
- Buy a humidifier. Dry sinuses are more sensitive to infection.
- Don’t make it worse. Try not to move around too much for a while, and also avoid getting overheated.
When to Seek Help
If your sinus infection doesn’t clear away in three weeks, or if it doesn’t respond to medication, you should consult your doctor. You may have hidden allergies, or it could be a sign of a different disorder.
