Seeking Recommendations for ENT Specialists
Age 30, height 5’3”, weight 125 lbs - Back in 2019, I began experiencing episodes where my ears would suddenly feel blocked, severely impacting my hearing. It was reminiscent of that sensation you get during altitude changes on an airplane, when the pressure causes a feeling of fullness in your ears that can only be relieved by yawning. These occurrences weren’t linked to any illness or allergies and could last a couple of days at a time. I visited my doctor, who prescribed a nasal spray, but it provided no relief. Unfortunately, these issues persist to this day despite my efforts, which included trying various nasal sprays. In 2022, while landing during a flight, I experienced excruciating pain across my face, particularly behind my eyes, my jaw, and my eyebrows. This turned out to be pressure-related nerve pain, so intense that I feared I was having a brain aneurysm. I’ve also tried congestion medications, allergy treatments, nasal sprays, saline rinses, staying hydrated around the clock, and using ear protection, but none have alleviated my symptoms. I consulted with an ENT specialist twice, who conducted a hearing test showing no problems, yet they couldn't find a solution, and that was the end of the consultation. Just yesterday, I experienced that same ear blockage sensation throughout the day, and today I woke up with painful nerve sensations in my face. The situation is continuously worsening. I’ve even used prescription medications and sprays to no avail. I have another appointment scheduled with an ENT in a different state and am hopeful that I might finally gain some insight into my symptoms. I've read that requesting a CT scan might be beneficial—any other suggestions regarding questions to ask or other steps I should consider during my upcoming appointment?
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 3:20:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating and painful situation regarding your ear blockage and facial nerve pain. Your ongoing symptoms and the lack of effective treatment have understandably led you to seek more targeted care from an ENT specialist. Here are some important points and actionable suggestions for your upcoming appointment.
Main Points:
- Ongoing Symptoms Need Attention: You have a complex history of ear blockages and facial pain, which require thorough investigation.
- Requesting Specific Tests: Considering imaging studies like a CT scan could provide valuable insights into structural issues.
- Questions for Your ENT: Prepare questions that address your ongoing concerns and treatment options.
Explanation:
The sensation of ear blockage, especially if accompanied by facial pain, may suggest issues related to the Eustachian tube (which helps equalize ear pressure) or could potentially indicate sinus involvement. It is important to investigate underlying causes that may not have been addressed in previous visits.
Suggested Actions for Your Upcoming Appointment:
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Request a CT Scan:
- Explain your history and symptoms and ask if a CT scan of your sinuses or ears is appropriate. This can help identify any blockages, structural issues, or sinusitis that may not be visible through a regular examination.
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Prepare Questions:
- Ask about potential diagnoses or conditions that might explain your symptoms.
- Inquire about other diagnostic tests that could be helpful, such as an MRI or allergy testing if relevant.
- Discuss treatment options that haven’t been tried yet. This may include different medications, therapies, or even surgical options if necessary.
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Document Your Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms leading up to the appointment. Note when symptoms occur, their intensity, any triggers you may have identified, and previous treatments tried. This can help your specialist pinpoint the cause more effectively.
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Explore Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Discuss techniques or lifestyle changes that could help, such as avoiding pressure changes when flying or using specific exercises to help equalize ear pressure.
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Communicate Your History and Concerns:
- Clearly explain the evolution of your symptoms and past treatments. Make sure to express how these issues affect your daily life, as this can emphasize the need for a thorough investigation.
Closing Thought:
Your experience is valid, and seeking additional opinions and tests is a proactive step toward finding relief. Stay hopeful about your upcoming consultation, as gathering the right information and exploring all possible avenues can lead to improved management of your symptoms. If you have any other questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out.
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