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Suggest Treatment For Ear Pain And Middle Ear Inflammation

Posted on Fri, 24 Jul 2015

Question: I have had ear tubes for over a year and just went to have them checkout and my ENT said they still look great. I went swimming the other day and got a little water in my right ear and ever since I have pain in my ear when I burp or hiccup and when I lay down I hear like a pulsing in that ear. Is there anything I can do at home or do I need to wait until Monday and go back to my ENT for help?

Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Middle ear inflammation...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

After going through the history, I am of the opinion that there could be a mild inflammation in the middle ear secondary to the entry of water into the former through the grommet.

Ideally, you would require a thorough otoscopic examination of the ear to look for any signs of infection.

As you are unable to meet your doctor, you can try the following remedies:
1. Try using nasal decongestant spray such as Xylometazoline to open up the nasal end of the Eustachian tube (the tube connecting nose and the ear).
2. Do steam inhalation 2-3 times a day for a couple of minutes. This augments the effect of the decongestant spray.
3. Avoid water getting into the ear while taking shower.
4. Drink plenty of warm water.
5. Avoid smoking.
6. Consult your doctor on Monday without fail or in ER if you note any discharge coming out of your ear.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

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

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. Shanthi.E