Brief Answer:
Eustachian tube block...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

I have examined the image you have posted. It is a perfectly normal ear drum. The sense of ear block could be due to blockage of the nasal end of the Eustachian tube (the tube connecting nose and the ear).

My suggestions to you are:
1. Try doing steam inhalation at home, 2-3 times a day for 3-5 minutes.
2. Drink frequent sips of warm water.
3. Try using over the counter medicine, xylometazoline nasal spray for not more than 5 days.
4. Avoid chilled food & beverages, coffee and smoking for few days till you get better.

Hope this answers your query. I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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Brief Answer:
Yes, oral decongestants will definitely help...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for writing back,

Following Eustachian tube block, there will be some amount of fluid trapped in the middle due to disturbed ventilation. That is the reason you feel something moving inside the ear when you shake your head. If the Eustachian tube congestion is not relieved at the earliest, the fluid accumulation will increase causing disturbed hearing.

Oral decongestants will definitely help. More than that, steam inhalation and decongestant nasal spray (xylometazoline) will give you better relief.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish you an early recovery.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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