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When Would It Be Safe To Fly Without Any Risk Of Eardrum Rupture While Treating Severe Middle Ear Infection?
Question: I was diagnosed with a severe middle ear infection on Thursday March 29th. The pain had decreased significantly with use of the prescriptions for amoxicillin and pain reliever. However, my ear is still clogged and ringing and I’m suffering from head congestion. When would it be safe to fly without risk of eardrum rupture and/or hearing loss?
Thank you.
Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Ideally after complete recovery. See details.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I think it's chronic suppurative otitis media, nothing but the severe middle ear infection. I would suggest you continue antibiotic and pain reliever as advised. Along with that you can decongestant like phenylephrine and antibiotic ear drops. As these are prescription medications, consult with your doctor. Do steam inhalation 2 to 3 times a day.
As in this disease, already your eardrum is ruptured and maybe some hearing loss will be there. So during fly, it may cause pain because of congestion. Chewing gums, the valsalva maneuver can give some relief during fly. I think you should fly after complete recovery except for any emergency. I will suggest you do regular follow up with ENT surgeon. Kindly follow up if any query.
I think this will clarify your concerns.
Regards,
Dr Shyam Kale,
Family and general physician.
Ideally after complete recovery. See details.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I think it's chronic suppurative otitis media, nothing but the severe middle ear infection. I would suggest you continue antibiotic and pain reliever as advised. Along with that you can decongestant like phenylephrine and antibiotic ear drops. As these are prescription medications, consult with your doctor. Do steam inhalation 2 to 3 times a day.
As in this disease, already your eardrum is ruptured and maybe some hearing loss will be there. So during fly, it may cause pain because of congestion. Chewing gums, the valsalva maneuver can give some relief during fly. I think you should fly after complete recovery except for any emergency. I will suggest you do regular follow up with ENT surgeon. Kindly follow up if any query.
I think this will clarify your concerns.
Regards,
Dr Shyam Kale,
Family and general physician.
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. Yogesh D
Answered by
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