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Is Black Earwax A Sign Of An Infection In The Ear?
Question: My right ear feels plugged up. I gently cleaned it with a q-tip. It came back out with some black material on it. I am planning to make an appointment with an ENT. Is this the best course of action?
Brief Answer:
Yes, seeing your doctor would be the best option.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes, seeing a doctor would be the best course of action. If it is difficult to see an ENT doctor then you can see your family doctor who would also be able to take a look at the ear for you.
A blocked or plugged sensation in the ear can be due to different possible causes.
Some of the more common causes are-
(1) infection of the ear-with the black substance in the ear, it is possible that you may have an infection that needs treatment.
(2) foreign object in the ear.
(3) sinusitis or cough/cold.
(4) trauma to the ear.
(5) eustachian tube dysfunction- this is a tube in the ear that connects the middle ear with the back of the throat. it has different functions including helping with the pressure in the ear.
If it is not working, then it can cause the ear to feel full. Decongestants and antihistamines are used. e.g. zyrtec d, allegra d, claritine d, benadryl d.
You can use this combination until you are seen. May help to relieve some of your discomforts.
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
Yes, seeing your doctor would be the best option.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes, seeing a doctor would be the best course of action. If it is difficult to see an ENT doctor then you can see your family doctor who would also be able to take a look at the ear for you.
A blocked or plugged sensation in the ear can be due to different possible causes.
Some of the more common causes are-
(1) infection of the ear-with the black substance in the ear, it is possible that you may have an infection that needs treatment.
(2) foreign object in the ear.
(3) sinusitis or cough/cold.
(4) trauma to the ear.
(5) eustachian tube dysfunction- this is a tube in the ear that connects the middle ear with the back of the throat. it has different functions including helping with the pressure in the ear.
If it is not working, then it can cause the ear to feel full. Decongestants and antihistamines are used. e.g. zyrtec d, allegra d, claritine d, benadryl d.
You can use this combination until you are seen. May help to relieve some of your discomforts.
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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