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What Causes Water Like Sensation In The Ears Along With Intermittent Post Nasal Drip?

Posted on Tue, 1 Oct 2019

Question: I have had sinus congestion for weeks but my nose is not blocked and I have my sense of smell. Sometimes my ears feel like they have water in them and I have occasional post nasal drip. Some days are fine then it's back

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Allergic rhinitis, Laryngopharygeal reflux

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

The symptoms described by you seems to be related to Allergic rhinitis and Laryngopharygeal Reflux.

You should continue with Nasonex regularly for 4-5 months. This can alleviate the symptoms.

Secondly, Laryngopharygeal Reflux as a result of acid regurgitation from the stomach into the throat can cause similar symptoms. This would require proton pump inhibitor and an antacid.

Drink frequent sips of warm water, avoid coffee/chilled food and beverages/greasy items/ smoking (if any).

Hope this answers your query; I’ll be available for the follow up queries.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (6 hours later)

Thank you doctor. I currently take omeprazole for GURD. Is that considered a ppi? Also would dry, warm air primarily from home and auto heating cause this type of sinus irritation? I am in my car about 4 hours a day commuting with the heat on as it has been unseasonably cold. Also forced hot air at work and home.
How many times per day should I use Nasonex? I was told by my primary care doc that it can be irritating?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Omeprazole needs to be replaced with newer generation PPI

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

1. Omeprazole is a PPI. But, I strongly feel you should get Omeprazole replaced with a newer generation PPIs, such as, Pantoprazole/Esomeprazole/Dexlansoprazole.

2. Yes, humidified air can reduce the nasal irritation.

3. Nasonex can be used once a day, 1 puff in each nostril, for not less than 4-5 months. Also, you should you isotonic saline nasal spray as frequently as possible to keep the nasal mucosa moist and to reduce the post nasal drip.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish you good health.

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. Remy Koshy