It has been recognized by doctors that chronic perennial allergic rhinitis combined with chronic otitis media may be caused by an allergy to the house dust mite. House dust mite allergens are a contributing factor in some vulnerable patients. This sub-set of patients with the disease are often children.1,2
The nose is connected to the ear by the eustachian tube. The function of this tube is to help balance the air pressure on the inside of the eardrum. It also drains away any fluids produced by the ear itself. The tube becomes dysfunctional when blocked by mucus from the nose, causing the air in the middle ear to be trapped. This trapped air is replaced by a sticky secretion, which adheres to the small bones that are essential for hearing. This effect may lead to degrees of deafness. The condition is referred to as 'glue ear'. Symptoms are itchiness or 'popping' of the ears and in very young children noticeable scratching, or pulling at, their ears.3,4 It is important to identify allergy to house dust mites so that it can be dealt with in the appropriate manner.
References: 1. Fireman P. ‘Allergy and Allergic Diseases’ Blackwell Science 1997;2 Otitis Media: Chapter 104.
Edited by Kay A.B.
2. Meltzer E.O.,Orgel H.A., Jalowayski A.A., ‘Histamine levels and nasal cytology in children with
chronic otitis media and rhinitis’. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: May 1995 :74;406-410
3. Naclerio R, Solomon W. ‘Rhinitis and Inhalant Allergens’ JAMA Dec 10 1997 278;No.22:1842-1848
4. Brostoff J, Gamlin L. ‘The Complete Guide to Food Allergy and Intolerance’ Bloomsbury 1992
ISBN 0-7475-1260-4
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