Can a Sinus Infection Cause Hearing Loss?

About 1 in 8 adults experiences a sinus infection each year. [2] So if you’re one of them, you aren’t alone. Your ears, nose, and throat are closely connected. The eustachian tubes are small passages that link the middle ear to the back of the nose and upper throat. When these tubes don’t open or close normally, a condition called eustachian tube dysfunction (EDT), you can experience symptoms like ear fullness, pressure, and hearing issues. [3]

Allergies, colds, and infections are common triggers, especially in colder months. Sinus infections fall into this same category because the inflammation and congestion they cause can block the eustachian tubes. That blockage can trap fluid or change the air pressure behind the eardrum, which often leads to:

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears
• Muffled or reduced hearing
• Popping or crackling sensations

In most cases, this type of hearing change is temporary and improves as the sinus infection clears and the eustachian tubes reopen. But in some cases, sinus or upper respiratory infections can lead to middle ear infections. [4]

Mild hearing loss is common with middle ear infections, and hearing usually returns to normal after the infection resolves. However, recurrent infections or long-lasting fluid in the middle ear can lead to more serious hearing problems. [4]

Most sinus-related hearing changes are temporary and improve once the infection, congestion, and eustachian tube dysfunction is resolved.

How long does hearing loss last after sinus infections? In general, it usually goes away on its own within a few days, though treatment is important if it persists. [3]

In some rare situations, problems that begin with nasal or sinus issues can contribute to more lasting hearing damage, especially if infections are severe, recurrent, or not treated appropriately.

You should contact a general practitioner or ENT if you experience the following symptoms:

• Ear fullness, muffled hearing (conductive hearing loss), or tinnitus doesn’t improve as your sinus symptoms get better. Note: when the middle ear is blocked with fluid, external noise can’t mask internal head noises, which can make tinnitus seem louder. [7]
  
  
• You have significant ear pain, drainage, or dizziness.
  
  
• If symptoms last more than 7–10 days or if you experience sudden, profound hearing loss in one ear, seek immediate medical attention.