Grand Canyon Times

Mary Pleshtiyev, a physician assistant at Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center, said that sinusitis or allergies can cause swelling of the Eustachian tube, which connects the nose to the ear. This swelling can lead to sensations of fullness, hearing issues, and dizziness. The statement was made on Instagram on September 18, 2024.

"So the correlation between sinusitis and ears is the tube that connects from your middle ear space actually starts in the back of your nose and it goes through our heads into our middle ear space to drain it," said Pleshtiyev, according to Instagram. "So when that tube is swollen because of allergies or sinus disease or anything else that can cause irritation in the nose, the tube isn't functioning to open and close appropriately. To control pressure changes and drain the fluid in your middle ears which then can cause ear symptoms. Ear symptoms such as fullness, clogged sensation, muffled hearing, tinnitus and even imbalance and dizziness."

According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, such conditions can disrupt ear pressure and drainage, leading to common symptoms. This area of study is part of a broader effort to enhance public awareness about the connections between respiratory and auditory health.

The American Academy's clinical practice guideline on adult sinusitis indicates that over 30 million U.S. adults are affected by sinusitis each year. This condition often triggers ear-related symptoms due to dysfunction in the Eustachian tube. Chronic sinusitis patients frequently report experiencing ear fullness, a complication supported by studies highlighting its prevalence.

The Eustachian tube is a 35-millimeter passage in adults that links the nasopharynx to the middle ear, balancing pressure and draining fluid. Research published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that inflammation from allergies or infections can impair its function, resulting in fluid buildup and pressure changes. Affected individuals may experience temporary hearing loss or dizziness as a consequence.

Pleshtiyev holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science from Arizona State University and a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Northern Arizona University. She transitioned from family medicine and urgent care to specialize in otolaryngology, focusing on conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat.

Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center is based in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in ear, nose, and throat care with an emphasis on sinus and allergy treatments. According to its website, the center employs a team of professionals who provide both medical and surgical solutions for patients. The practice is recognized for its patient-centered approach and advancements in regional treatment.