What Causes Sore Throat And Earache While Treating A Viral Lung Infection?
Question: my wife is coming off a viral lung infection, treated with anti-biotics. Feeling much better but has an extremely sore throat (due to coughing) and has an earache. Visited PCP who said she just needs to ride it out but I am concerned about the ear ache. She has no nasal congestion but a lot of pressure. Anything we can do?
Brief Answer:
OTC nasal decongestant drops. Steam inhalation.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. OTC nasal decongestant drops ( 0.1 % Xylometazoline) can be used for short term relief.
2. Steam inhalation and auto inflation exercises (such as the Valasava maneuver) will help.
3. Hypertonic saline nasal washes can also be done.
4. If there is no relief in a couple of days, consult an ENT Specialist. An Impedance Audiometry can measure the middle ear pressures. Hearing should also be checked to rule out side effects of any medication used for her treatment.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
OTC nasal decongestant drops. Steam inhalation.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. OTC nasal decongestant drops ( 0.1 % Xylometazoline) can be used for short term relief.
2. Steam inhalation and auto inflation exercises (such as the Valasava maneuver) will help.
3. Hypertonic saline nasal washes can also be done.
4. If there is no relief in a couple of days, consult an ENT Specialist. An Impedance Audiometry can measure the middle ear pressures. Hearing should also be checked to rule out side effects of any medication used for her treatment.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more 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. Vaishalee Punj