Seeking Help: Unexplained Issues with My Ear Canals
I am a 21-year-old female with a medical history that includes domestic violence, Factor V Leiden, asthma, elevated ANA and C3 levels, low IGA, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Recently, I have been experiencing some unusual and troubling issues with my ear canals. Despite multiple consultations, including visits to an ENT specialist and subsequent referrals to an immunologist and another ENT as well as a dermatologist, no one has been able to determine the cause of my symptoms. My ear canal seems to have flare-ups unpredictably, presenting with white patches and striations in red and white. The discomfort is significant, with episodes of swelling that sometimes completely shut the canal, accompanied by a burning sensation and considerable pain. I take great care not to use cotton swabs or insert any objects into my ears and do my best to prevent water from entering them, yet the situation persists. The only treatment that has brought me any level of comfort has been steroids and steroid drops. At this stage, we've excluded common fungal and bacterial infections, along with psoriasis as the potential cause of my condition. I'm open to any advice or recommendations you might have! Previously, I encountered inner ear infections, but those seem to have improved thanks to a nasal spray I was using. Now, it's solely the outer ear that remains an enigma. I appreciate anyone who takes the time to read my message and offer insights!
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 12:50:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the ongoing issues you're experiencing with your ear canals. Given the complexity of your medical history and the symptoms you’ve described, it's understandable that this situation is concerning for you. Let's focus on what you might do to manage your symptoms more effectively and explore potential next steps.
Key Points:
- You experience significant discomfort in your ear canals, characterized by white patches, swelling, and burning sensations.
- Despite various consultations, a definitive diagnosis has not yet been reached.
- You've found some relief with steroids and drops, but the situation remains unresolved.
Explanation:
It sounds like you may be dealing with a condition affecting the outer ear that could be allergic, inflammatory, or even related to your history of immune system issues considering your low IgA and elevated ANA levels. The unpredictability of flare-ups suggests that there could be triggers that are not yet identified, possibly including environmental factors or sensitivities.
Next Steps:
-
Identify Potential Triggers:
- Keep a detailed symptom diary to note when flare-ups occur and any potential triggers (foods, environmental allergens, stress, etc.). This can be invaluable in identifying patterns or potential irritants.
-
Consider Allergy Testing:
- If not already done, discuss the possibility of comprehensive allergy testing with your healthcare providers. Given your history with asthma and immune issues, identifying any environmental or contact allergens could help manage symptoms.
-
Modify Your Environment:
- Ensure that your living space is free from allergens (like dust, pet dander, or molds). Regular cleaning can help, as well as using air purifiers if necessary.
-
Gentle Care Practices:
- Since you already avoid cotton swabs, consider applying a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to the outer ear (not inside) if comfort allows, particularly after washing or exposure to water. This can help maintain moisture balance without causing irritation.
-
Discuss Treatment Options:
- Since steroid drops provide some relief, work closely with your doctor to optimize this treatment. Ask if there's an option to adjust the dosage or try a different formulation to better manage inflammation and pain.
-
Regular Monitoring:
- Schedule follow-ups with your ENT or dermatologist to review your symptoms regularly. Keeping them informed about any patterns or changes can aid in managing your condition more effectively.
-
Evaluate Systemic Factors:
- Given your medical history, discuss with your healthcare provider whether any systemic issues related to your immune system could be influencing your ear problems.
It’s important to advocate for yourself and remain engaged with your healthcare team, especially given the lack of definitive answers so far. Keep pursuing comfort and improvements in your quality of life. If new symptoms arise or if your current symptoms worsen, stay vigilant and relay that information to your providers promptly. Please take care!
Related Questions
Understanding Mild Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease
I am a 29-year-old female, standing at 5'7" and weighing 130 pounds. Recently, a CT scan revealed that I have mild diverticulitis. About a week ago, I experienced significant discomfort, particularly in the pelvic region, along with pain in my right leg and hip, and some mild discomfort on the left side. After undergoing a CT scan, which confirmed the presence of mild diverticular disease, I was surprised that no one from my medical team provided any follow-up or acknowledged the condition. My blood tests returned normal results, and I was discharged without further information. While the pain subsided after about three days, it has unfortunately reappeared four days later. Is this something I should be worried about? What does this mean for me? I had a colonoscopy around 11 months ago, which indicated no issues.
Understanding the Reality of End-Stage Pancreatic Cancer
Navigating the complexities of end-stage pancreatic cancer can be overwhelming, and I'm seeking clarity on what lies ahead. My mother, who is 59 years old and weighs about 115 pounds, received her diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer in October 2025. Unfortunately, she has largely rejected the option of chemotherapy and is consuming her pain relief medications—specifically oxycodone and morphine—at an alarming rate. While I’m not worried about the dosage, the severity of her pain has reached a level that is becoming unbearable. Despite this, she is adamant about avoiding any hospital treatment, even though that's where she would receive the most effective pain management. I’ve attempted multiple times to get her medical attention, calling both hospitals and emergency services. However, due to her refusal for assistance, they have also turned us down. It was explained to me that taking her against her will could be considered kidnapping. After consulting with various healthcare professionals, I have been informed that her time may be measured in days or weeks. There’s also a chance that she could slip into unconsciousness, leaving me deeply unsettled. I am already in a state of mourning, yet I am desperate to understand what to expect in the coming days. It is crucial for me to prepare myself—emotionally and mentally—so that I can help ensure her comfort in these final moments. Plans are underway to engage hospice care, but the uncertainty fills me with apprehension. This is my mother, and I want to alleviate my fear so I can provide her with the support she needs as she nears the end of her journey. I yearn to be present for her without being entirely consumed by grief before she passes away. Any guidance or insight you could provide would be invaluable. I'm at a loss for what steps to take next and truly desire to navigate this situation with as much grace and readiness as possible.
Exploring Inositol and CoQ10 for Managing PCOS Symptoms
As a 28-year-old female, I have faced the challenges of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since my teenage years. Starting from the age of 16, I have dealt with highly irregular menstrual cycles, occurring anywhere from three to eight months apart. My diagnosis has been substantiated through two ultrasounds and blood tests revealing elevated androgen levels. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and leading an active lifestyle—balancing my work as an environmental biologist with gym sessions alongside my husband—I continue to wrestle with weight management. Other symptoms impacting my daily life include significant hair loss, unwanted facial hair, and persistent fatigue. In my journey to manage PCOS, I previously sought counsel from a gynaecologist, who primarily suggested hormonal birth control as the main approach to alleviate my symptoms. Although I adhered to this recommendation for several years, the hormonal changes negatively impacted my mood, leading me to discontinue its use. Another alternative proposed by my gynaecologist involved androgen blockers, but these are not suitable for me since my husband and I plan to start a family in the next two to three years. Recently, my research led me to discover that supplements like Inositol and CoQ10 might effectively combat insulin resistance and lower androgen levels. They are purported to improve various symptoms associated with PCOS, including the regulation of ovulation, all while boasting minimal adverse effects. I am curious about the viability of these supplements as alternatives to hormonal birth control or androgen blockers in managing my PCOS symptoms.
Seeking Clarity on My Spinal Tap Results: A Bit Anxious
I am a 31-year-old woman experiencing a continuous headache for the past four months, accompanied by feelings of nausea and exhaustion. I take Lexapro each day to manage my mental health. I have a history of migraines and headaches, but this recent episode doesn't align with my previous experiences. Here are the findings from my spinal tap: - **Opening Pressure of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)**: 9 cm H₂O - **Presence of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) in CSF**: 2,570 - **Total Protein Level in CSF**: 107 mg/dL - **ACE Level in CSF**: 4.4 - **Other Tests on CSF**: Results were normal. - **Brain MRI and MR Venography**: Both tests yielded normal results. - **Blood Test Results**: Normal results were obtained. Given these results, I'm feeling a bit uneasy and I’m hoping to better understand what they might indicate about my health.
Navigating Ear Infections While Traveling in Thailand
**Age:** 23 **Height:** 6'3" **Weight:** 88 kg **Medication Taken:** 1000mg Bactoclav - Amoxicillin with Potassium Clavulanate, along with pain relief and antihistamines. **Summary:** I’m hesitant to consult a doctor overseas only to receive a prescription for the same antibiotics available at a local pharmacy for a fraction of the price. What strategies can I employ to effectively manage this persistent ear infection? Am I being too hasty in my expectations? I have a long history of ear infections, often triggered by exposure to water or any activity impacting my ears. I regularly use a specialized oil before showering to prevent water from entering my ears. While backpacking in Thailand, I've developed a particularly severe ear infection over the last several days. Initially, a course of 500mg amoxicillin seemed effective, but significantly, just yesterday my condition took a downturn, shifting from nearly healed to painfully inflamed. Now, my ear is not only swollen but also incredibly sore. In an attempt to combat this, I’ve been taking 1000mg Bactoclav - Amoxicillin and Potassium Clavulanate, having consumed seven tablets in the last two days; unfortunately, there's been no noticeable improvement. I’m reluctant to seek medical attention, fearing I would be prescribed the same medication I could acquire from a pharmacy, albeit at a much higher cost. Yet, I’m also starting to question the efficacy of the pharmacy’s medication. I’ve only recently begun the stronger treatment since my symptoms returned. Any advice would be greatly valued! In addition, I’d like to share that just a week into my four-month journey, I feel as though my ongoing ear issues are gradually dominating my life. I am incredibly grateful for this travel opportunity, and while my health isn’t at risk in a serious way, these ear complications are becoming quite overwhelming. Could there be surgical options available? Might there be an underlying health concern that I’m unaware of? It doesn’t seem normal to be plagued by constant ringing, popping sounds, and wax buildup in my ears. Moreover, it feels excessive to have to apply products in my ears every time I shower.