XẸP MÀNG NHĨ - “THỦ PHẠM ÂM THẦM” KHIẾN THÍNH LỰC SUY GIẢM

PERSISTENT TINNITUS AND GRADUAL HEARING LOSS – A WARNING SIGN OF TYMPANIC MEMBRANE RETRACTION

Don’t ignore seemingly minor symptoms

Persistent tinnitus, gradually worsening hearing, or a feeling of “blocked ears” as if underwater are symptoms many people tend to overlook. However, these may indicate tympanic membrane retraction—a condition that progresses silently within the middle ear and can lead to hearing loss if not detected and treated early.

What is tympanic membrane retraction?

Tympanic membrane retraction occurs when the eardrum is pulled inward due to decreased pressure in the middle ear. This is often associated with dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which plays a key role in balancing pressure between the middle ear and the external environment.

Lifestyle factors that increase the risk

This condition usually develops gradually and is often linked to chronic ear–nose–throat problems. Common contributing factors include:

• Untreated or prolonged rhinitis and pharyngitis
• Nasal congestion and mouth breathing (especially in children with enlarged adenoids)
• Sudden pressure changes during respiratory infections
• Living in polluted or dusty environments
• Ignoring prolonged tinnitus or hearing difficulties

These factors impair Eustachian tube function, leading to reduced middle ear pressure and eventually causing eardrum retraction.

Potential complications if left untreated

Without timely intervention, tympanic membrane retraction may lead to:

• Persistent ear fullness and tinnitus, as if water is trapped inside
• Muffled or unclear hearing
• Progressive hearing loss
• Communication difficulties affecting daily life
• In children: low confidence, reluctance to communicate, or being mistaken for inattentiveness
• Ongoing tinnitus causing fatigue, poor concentration, and reduced quality of life

Effective solution: Ventilation tube insertion

At TNH Viet Yen Hospital, ventilation tube insertion is routinely performed by experienced ENT specialists using modern endoscopic systems, ensuring safety and effectiveness:

• Rapidly balances middle ear pressure
• Effectively drains fluid and reduces recurrence
• Protects the middle ear and prevents complications

The procedure is minimally invasive, takes only 10–15 minutes, causes little discomfort, and allows quick recovery. A tiny ventilation tube (approximately 1 mm in size) helps maintain ear function until the Eustachian tube recovers.

Warning signs not to ignore

ENT specialists recommend seeking medical attention if you notice:

• Persistent nasal congestion and frequent snoring
• Children frequently asking for repetition or responding slowly
• Inattention or difficulty concentrating when listening

Early check-ups help protect hearing

Do not underestimate these warning signs. Early examination and timely treatment are essential to protect hearing—especially important for children’s development and communication skills.

📞 Hotline: 1900 8035

🌐 Website: https://tnh.com.vn

TNH Hospital System:

• TNH Viet Yen Hospital – Bac Ninh
• TNH Pho Yen Hospital – Thai Nguyen
• TNH Lang Son Hospital – Lang Son
• Thai Nguyen International Hospital – Thai Nguyen

👉 If you experience persistent tinnitus or hearing loss, seek medical evaluation early to protect your hearing and quality of life.