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What Causes Persistent Fluid In Ear Despite Taking Sudafed And Nasacort?
Question: The nurse practitioner at my clinic told me that I have fluid behind my eardrum. I went in because my hearing in that ear had changed. I am 58 years old and have a hearing aid in my left ear and my right ear has always been good. Left has been bad since childhood. My right ear, or rather good ear, is the one with the fluid. I have no pain just hearing issues. She told me to take sudafed and continue using nasacort to help to drain. I have been doing this for over a week and there is no change. What do you recommend?
Brief Answer:
Different options available to you
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The treatment of this condition varies. Some persons suggest- (1) watchful waiting where the individual is seen repeatedly over a 3 month period to see if there is improvement
(2)use of a decongestant and the nasal steroid can also be done as well
(3)Antibiotics are also an option but they are not used in a lot of persons
(4)rarely steroids
It can unfortunately take more than 1 week for improvement to occur, since you have difficulties hearing with the other ear, however, it may be best to consider seeing an ENT doctor for assessment and treatment.
If there is no improvement in the 3 month period then surgery is an option. This would involve, the placement of tubes in the ear to allow for drainage.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Different options available to you
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The treatment of this condition varies. Some persons suggest- (1) watchful waiting where the individual is seen repeatedly over a 3 month period to see if there is improvement
(2)use of a decongestant and the nasal steroid can also be done as well
(3)Antibiotics are also an option but they are not used in a lot of persons
(4)rarely steroids
It can unfortunately take more than 1 week for improvement to occur, since you have difficulties hearing with the other ear, however, it may be best to consider seeing an ENT doctor for assessment and treatment.
If there is no improvement in the 3 month period then surgery is an option. This would involve, the placement of tubes in the ear to allow for drainage.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
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. Prasad
Answered by
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