Research

Middle Ear Pressure and Ragweed Allergy

A Pilot Study of the Effect of Intranasal Ragweed Challenge in Adult AR Subjects on Middle Ear Pressure-Regulation

Protocol Description

This study will determine the effect of ragweed exposure on middle ear function in ragweed-allergic adults. Participants who report they are ragweed allergic will undergo Eustachian tube function testing before and after ragweed or placebo challenge. If eligible from screening tests, they will also be eligible for one of two studies looking at further aspects of Eustachian tube and middle ear function.

Eligibility Criteria

Subject to certain exclusion criteria, the study is open to adults of both genders ages 18 to 50 who have been diagnosed with a ragweed allergy. Having working tympanostomy tubes or middle ear effusion (fluid build-up) are exclusions.
Men: Age 18 to 50
Women: Age 18 to 50

Requirements
Following a blood draw for confirmation of ragweed allergy, each participant’s ears and nose will be examined, and Eustachian tube function testing will be done in Children’s Middle Ear Physiology Laboratory in Oakland. At 2 visits, participants will receive a ragweed or placebo challenge (ragweed or placebo sprayed into nose), followed by additional Eustachian tube function testing.
Visits: 4 (2 for screening and 2 for study)
Duration: Approximately 4 weeks

Status: Open to Enrollment

Source of Support
National Institutes of Health