Can impedance audiometry be performed during a cold?

How a cold and runny nose affect impedance audiometry results

Impedance audiometry evaluates the mobility of the eardrum and the condition of the middle ear, so any inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx can affect the final results. A cold and impedance audiometry are closely connected through the function of the auditory (Eustachian) tube, which is responsible for pressure equalization.

With a runny nose and swelling of the mucous membranes, ventilation of the middle ear is disrupted, which can temporarily change tympanogram values. That is why the combination of a runny nose and impedance audiometry may sometimes produce unstable or borderline results that do not reflect the true condition of the auditory system.

Most often, the issue lies not in the examination itself but in physiological changes during illness. Increased pressure or the presence of fluid behind the eardrum leads to distortion of examination results, especially with pronounced ARVI symptoms.

It is important to understand that such deviations are temporary. After recovery, the indicators usually return to normal, so the doctor always evaluates impedance audiometry results taking into account the patient’s general condition at the time of examination.

In which cases it is better to postpone impedance audiometry until recovery

There are situations when the examination should indeed be postponed. The question of when to postpone impedance audiometry most often arises in cases of severe nasal congestion, ear pain, or elevated body temperature.

In such situations, conducting the examination may not only reduce the accuracy of the data but also complicate correct interpretation of the results. Contraindications to impedance audiometry are usually temporary and are associated specifically with acute inflammatory processes.

The main reasons for postponing the examination include:

• pronounced swelling of the nasopharynx;

• acute otitis media;

• severe ear congestion;

• acute course of ARVI with fever.

When examination after a cold will be most accurate

It is considered optimal to perform the examination after a cold a few days after the main symptoms have resolved. During this time, the patency of the auditory tube is restored and pressure in the middle ear normalizes.

This approach helps avoid repeat visits and allows accurate data to be obtained on the first attempt. In addition, it becomes easier for the doctor to assess hearing function dynamics without the influence of temporary factors.

Choosing the right time for the examination increases diagnostic accuracy and reduces the likelihood of incorrect conclusions, especially during subsequent hearing aid selection or adjustment.

When impedance audiometry during a cold is acceptable and informative

Despite the limitations, in some cases the examination is still possible. Impedance audiometry during a mild cold is acceptable if there is no pronounced runny nose, fever, or ear pain.

Patients often ask whether impedance audiometry is acceptable when symptoms are minimal. With mild throat irritation or residual ARVI symptoms, the doctor may decide to proceed with the examination.

Even with minor symptoms, the specialist always considers the clinical picture and compares it with the obtained data. This helps maintain high informativeness of the examination and avoid diagnostic errors.

Thus, the decision to perform impedance audiometry is always made individually. If in doubt, it is best to consult a specialist who will assess the risks and choose the optimal time for the examination.