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What Causes Ear Congestion While On Keflex?
Question: I am developing fluid in my ear and I have not been swimming. This has been occurring for 3-4 months. I am currently taking Keflex for an upper respiratory infection. My ear is still not improving. what could this be?
Brief Answer:
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. The sensation of fluid building up in the ears can be due to many reasons such as ear wax build-up, swelling of the ear canal, ear drum, discharge, besides actual build-up of fluid behind the ear drum.
2. Normally, the middle ear (region of the ear behind the ear drum) has secretions which drain into the nose via the Eustachian Tube (ET). If the ET dysfunctions or gets blocked due to an upper respiratory tract infection, these secretions build-up behind the ear drum. Over several weeks, if this fluid does not drain, it tends to thicken to a glue like consistency.
3. An Impedance Audiogram (Tympanogram) is done to check if there is fluid and ET function. An ear drum examination is important. Other hearing tests can also be done.
4. ETD (Eustachian Tube Dysfunction) is common and treated with medication such as anti-allergic, mucolytic, anti-inflammatory medication, decongestant drops and steam inhalation. Sometimes, after many weeks of medical treatment, a myringotomy and grommet insertion is done.
5. Upload your ear examination findings and the Impedance Audiogram to discuss further treatment options.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. The sensation of fluid building up in the ears can be due to many reasons such as ear wax build-up, swelling of the ear canal, ear drum, discharge, besides actual build-up of fluid behind the ear drum.
2. Normally, the middle ear (region of the ear behind the ear drum) has secretions which drain into the nose via the Eustachian Tube (ET). If the ET dysfunctions or gets blocked due to an upper respiratory tract infection, these secretions build-up behind the ear drum. Over several weeks, if this fluid does not drain, it tends to thicken to a glue like consistency.
3. An Impedance Audiogram (Tympanogram) is done to check if there is fluid and ET function. An ear drum examination is important. Other hearing tests can also be done.
4. ETD (Eustachian Tube Dysfunction) is common and treated with medication such as anti-allergic, mucolytic, anti-inflammatory medication, decongestant drops and steam inhalation. Sometimes, after many weeks of medical treatment, a myringotomy and grommet insertion is done.
5. Upload your ear examination findings and the Impedance Audiogram to discuss further treatment options.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
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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