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Reasons for Pressure & Ringing in the Ear

Ringing in your ear indicates inner ear damage. Pressure in your ear indicates some form of blockage or swelling. The pressure can cause damage to your inner ear, causing the onset of tinnitus. A blockage can also reduce your ability to hear, making ringing more audible in your ear. Relieving the underlying cause of ear pressure can help relieve the ringing and protect your inner ear from further damage.

  1. Common Causes

    • Pressure will be felt inside your ear if you have an earwax blockage, ear infection, fluid in your middle ear—commonly occurring with a cold, flu or allergies—or an inner ear virus.

    Function

    • The inner ear's balance and hearing structures form an intricate labyrinth of tubes filled with nerve endings and fluid. If pressure and swelling disrupt the flow of fluid, you can develop ringing in your ear along with dizziness and hearing loss.

    Considerations

    • Your ear also contains many small blood vessels, so high blood pressure can cause pressure and ringing in your ear. Substances that constrict blood vessels like caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and certain drugs can intensify ear ringing.

    Trauma

    • Head trauma can damage the delicate structures of your inner ear, causing fluid to leak, swelling, rupture, pressure and ringing in your ear. If you experience ear pressure and ringing after an accident, contact your physician.

    Expert Insight

    • Viruses can settle in your ear and cause inflammation. Common symptoms of an ear virus include pressure, ringing, dizziness, nausea and hearing loss. A prescription steroid can reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms; the virus must run its course.

    Protection

    • Protecting your ears from excessive loud noise and keeping foreign objects, including cotton swabs, out of your ears, are two simple ways to reduce your risk of ear pressure and ringing.

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