Is Ear Blockage Accompanied by Tinnitus a Sign of Otitis Media?

Possible Causes of Ear Blockage and Tinnitus

Ear blockage accompanied by tinnitus could be indicative of otitis media, or potentially other conditions such as cerumen impaction, external otitis, and neural tinnitus. It is recommended that patients promptly seek medical attention and receive targeted treatment under the guidance of a physician. Here are the possible causes and corresponding treatments:

1. Otitis Media

Caused by bacterial or viral infections, otitis media can lead to tympanic membrane perforation, resulting in feelings of ear blockage, pain, and accompanying symptoms of hearing loss and tinnitus. Treatment may include prescribed antibiotics such as Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets or Amoxicillin Capsules.

2. Cerumen Impaction

Neglecting ear hygiene can lead to an excessive accumulation of earwax (cerumen), forming a hard mass that blocks the ear canal, causing hearing loss and, in severe cases, tinnitus. The impacted cerumen should be removed, possibly through irrigation with saline solution or softening with sodium bicarbonate solution before removal.

3. External Otitis

Caused by pathogen infection or chemical irritation, external otitis results in inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the external ear canal, manifesting as redness, swelling, pain, and a burning sensation. It can also cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Treatment may include prescribed antibiotics like Roxithromycin Capsules or Cefixime Capsules.

4. Neural Tinnitus

Neural tinnitus can arise from stress, overexertion, or underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which damage the auditory nerve center, causing tinnitus and hearing loss. Treatment involves nerve-nourishing medications like Mecobalamin Tablets and Vitamin B1 Tablets.

Other conditions such as Meniere's disease may also present similar symptoms. It is advised that patients maintain a positive mindset, practice good ear hygiene, and avoid scratching the ears with their hands.