Ear catarrh refers to the accumulation of mucus in the middle ear, often resulting from colds, sinus infections, or allergies. This build-up can lead to a sensation of fullness, hearing difficulties, and sometimes dizziness.
Catarrh is usually caused by the immune system reacting to an infection or irritation, which causes the lining of your nose and throat to become swollen and produce mucus. This can be triggered by:
The phlegm in the ears - also called tubal phlegm - is due to an inflammation that causes accumulation of mucus that is not easily drained. The main causes of catarrh in the ear are the same as the ones seen above, but in particular:
The formation of phlegm in the ears is determined by some forms of otitis that cause inflammation of the mucosa of the middle ear and the attached cavities. The mucous or seromucous exudate can be more or less abundant and partially or totally occupy the chest of the eardrum, which has all the characteristics of inflammation. Less frequently during the summer months, catarrhal otitis media have their highest incidence in winter, in full flu season.
The infectious agents that are most commonly involved in the process are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis. The infection and the consequent formation of mucus in the middle ear is determined by the spread and development of the germs which, during an inflammation of the upper airways (nose and throat), through the Eustachian tube, reach the chest of the eardrum.
Symptoms related to the presence of phlegm in the ears are characterized by:
The reduction in hearing ability is usually transitory and resolves with the resolution of the inflammatory phenomenon. In cases of chronicity or the spread of infection to the inner ear, hearing loss can be permanent.
Upon observation of the ear (otoscopy), the tympanic membrane may appear red with congestion of the hammer handle. In more advanced forms, it is possible to highlight a hydro-aerial level or a horizontal line that divides the liquid collection from the air normally present in the middle ear.
Consider the following approaches to help clear ear catarrh and relieve symptoms:
In some cases, anti-inflammatory medications and mucolytics are prescribed as first-line treatments
In addition to the methods above, these home remedies may provide relief:
When catarrh is experienced for months or years, it is defined as chronic catarrh. Causes of chronic catarrh are still uncertain, but it is possible that the catarrh may be due more to an abnormality of the feeling in the lining of the back of the nose and the throat. This could be the reason why people affected by this problem find it difficult to spit out the mucus that they are sensing at the back of the throat.
Chronic catarrh, despite it affecting people for a long time, could not change in symptoms. In this case, monitoring from your doctor could be not necessary. Differently, if experiencing new symptoms, such as blocked nose, runny nose, impairment of smell, sinus pain, sore throat, change in your voice or difficulty with swallowing, the chronic catarrh may indicate something else.
Find out more about other hearing diseases and symptoms
The presence of catarrh in the ears can significantly disrupt the normal functioning of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When mucus accumulates in the middle ear or blocks the Eustachian tubes, it can cause pressure imbalances that interfere with the inner ear's ability to regulate equilibrium. This often results in symptoms such as dizziness, light-headedness, or a general sense of unsteadiness—particularly noticeable during sudden head movements or changes in posture.
In some cases, these symptoms may be mild and temporary, resolving on their own as the mucus clears. However, persistent or worsening balance issues may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. If dizziness continues for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by hearing loss, pain, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or GP. A proper diagnosis can help determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment, which may include medication, ear drops, or other interventions aimed at restoring middle ear function.
