Do you have a nagging sensation of fluid buildup in one or both ears or behind them?
The sensation of fluid buildup in the ear or behind it can be uncomfortable and sometimes alarming.
It often feels like there is a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear, and it may be accompanied by muffled hearing or a sense of “underwater” hearing.
This sensation can result from various underlying conditions.
Have you been diagnosed with TMJ disorder and are wondering if there’s a connection?
Sometimes, when one feels as though there’s a little fluid in their ears, there really is – e.g., after swimming or washing one’s hair.
But what about in the absence of these activities?
What if the symptom seems to be only a perception of fluid?
“No — TMJ disorders do not cause fluid buildup, but patients suffering from TMJ disorders often have stuffiness in their ears and a feeling of ‘fluid’ in the ears,” explains Brijesh Chandwani, DMD, BDS, Diplomate, American Board of Orofacial Pain, with Connecticut & NY TMJ.
“Muscles close to the joint structures (lateral pterygoids and medial pterygoid) can refer discomfort (pain or fluid sensation) to the ear region quite commonly.”
Actual Fluid in an Ear — Not Just a Feeling
Ear Infections: Infections of the middle ear, known as otitis media, are a common cause of fluid buildup.
When bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, inflammation and swelling can lead to the accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, helping to equalize pressure and drain fluid.
If these tubes become blocked or inflamed due to conditions like colds, allergies or sinus infections, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear.
Sinusitis: Chronic sinus infections or sinusitis can cause inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear.
Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and congestion in the Eustachian tubes and nasal passages.
This inflammation can lead to fluid accumulation in the middle ear.
Fluid in the Inner Ear: Conditions affecting the inner ear, such as Meniere’s disease, can cause fluid buildup in the inner ear.
Meniere’s disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus, often associated with fluid retention in the inner ear structures.
Barotrauma: Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure, such as during air travel, scuba diving or rapid altitude changes, can cause fluid to accumulate in the middle ear.
Cholesteatoma: This is a rare but serious condition where a benign growth of skin cells and other tissues forms in the middle ear and/or mastoid process.
Tumors: Rarely, tumors of the ear, nasal passages or throat can obstruct normal fluid drainage and cause fluid accumulation.
These may include benign growths or, in some cases, malignant tumors.
Dr. Chandwani has 10+ years of experience focusing on TMJ disorders and sleep disorders.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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