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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Flu Virus Infection, Muffled Hearing, Ringing Sensation, Painful. What Does It Mean?

I am currently suffering from a Flu virus and have had it for a few days now. I woke up this morning and discovered that my hearing in my right ear has become muffled, with a slight ringing sensation. It is also quite painful. Could you tell me what this means? Is it just a case of mucus affecting the ear canal or am I losing my hearing?
Thu, 8 Nov 2012
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello. Welcome to Healthcare Magic.
I'm sorry you're not feeling well. Although it isn't possible to diagnose your condition without an examination, it sounds like you've developed a case of acute otitis media (a middle ear infection). Although there are a few viruses that can cause otitis media, your history is consistent with a secondary bacterial infection. This occurs when you catch a cold or flu, which causes congestion in your upper airways and occludes the tubes that normally ventilate your middle ear chambers (the Eustachian tubes). This situation creates an environment within your middle ears that is favorable to bacterial growth.
Acute otitis media usually requires antibiotic treatment. In addition, you might need a medication to control your pain until your infection subsides. I suggest you see your doctor as soon as possible to confirm your diagnosis and begin treatment.
I hope that helps, and good luck!
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Flu Virus Infection, Muffled Hearing, Ringing Sensation, Painful. What Does It Mean?

Hello. Welcome to Healthcare Magic. I m sorry you re not feeling well. Although it isn t possible to diagnose your condition without an examination, it sounds like you ve developed a case of acute otitis media (a middle ear infection). Although there are a few viruses that can cause otitis media, your history is consistent with a secondary bacterial infection. This occurs when you catch a cold or flu, which causes congestion in your upper airways and occludes the tubes that normally ventilate your middle ear chambers (the Eustachian tubes). This situation creates an environment within your middle ears that is favorable to bacterial growth. Acute otitis media usually requires antibiotic treatment. In addition, you might need a medication to control your pain until your infection subsides. I suggest you see your doctor as soon as possible to confirm your diagnosis and begin treatment. I hope that helps, and good luck!