Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and watery eyes. Allergens like house dust, pollen, and pet dander can irritate not only the nasal lining but also come into contact with the eyes, leading to itching and tearing. Allergic rhinitis can also be associated with ear problems due to mucosal swelling and its impact on eustachian tube function.

Ear fullness

According to Healthline, the nose and middle ear are connected by the eustachian tube. During an allergic reaction, nasal lining swelling and discharge can obstruct the eustachian tube or impair its function, leading to an imbalance of pressure in the middle ear, causing tinnitus, ear fullness, and discomfort.

Allergic rhinitis can affect the ears. Photo: Huyen Anh

Hearing changes

Fluid buildup in the middle ear creates a favorable environment for bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of otitis media. If fluid behind the eardrum persists, accompanied by ear inflammation, the vibration of the eardrum and ossicular chain can be hindered, leading to hearing loss. Tinnitus and a sensation of ear fullness can also occur when the eustachian tube functions poorly.

Ear inflammation

Nasal congestion and runny nose symptoms due to allergies can cause swelling around the eustachian tube, making it difficult for middle ear fluid to drain, leading to its accumulation. When fluid accumulates for an extended period, bacteria or viruses can grow and cause otitis media, sometimes accompanied by ear discharge. Initially, patients may experience ear fullness, tinnitus, or discomfort, followed by pain.

Eye swelling and itching

When the body is exposed to an allergen, histamine is released, increasing the permeability of blood vessels around the eyes. This causes swelling and can make blood vessels under the skin in the eye area more prominent, creating dark circles. Allergic reactions can also cause venous congestion around the eye sockets, leading to swollen and itchy eyelids. The itching sensation prompts patients to rub their eyes more, which can damage soft tissues and worsen the swelling.

Conjunctivitis

The nose and eyes are anatomically close, so inflammation and allergic reactions in the nose can easily spread to the conjunctiva, causing inflammation. Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include itching, red eyes, a gritty sensation, excessive tearing, and discharge. When allergens are removed, symptoms will subside.

Lacrimal duct inflammation

According to Everyday Health, swollen nasal mucosa can obstruct tear drainage through the nasolacrimal duct, which carries tears from the eyes to the nose. When tears accumulate in the lacrimal sac, bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of dacryocystitis, causing pain, swelling, or tearing.

To prevent allergic rhinitis from affecting the ears and eyes, patients should limit exposure to allergens. This includes wearing a mask outdoors, closing windows when pollen counts are high, and regularly changing pillowcases, sheets, and blankets. If allergic to pets, contact should be limited, and they should not be allowed in bedrooms.

Using appropriate air filters can also help reduce indoor allergen levels. Frequent hand washing, avoiding eye rubbing, and changing clothes after coming indoors help limit allergen exposure to the eyes and nose.

Anh Chi (Compiled)