Comparing Barrow's and Burow's Solution for Chronic Ear Issues
Age: 35, Gender: Female, Height: 5'3", Weight: 150 lbs, Ethnicity: Caucasian, Condition: chronic swimmer's ear, Duration: intermittent for over 10 years, Current medications: none except for hydrocortisone/acetic acid otic drops, Alcohol use: no, Smoking: no, Recreational drug use: no. For over a decade, I've been dealing with persistent itching in my ears. This discomfort is not continuous; it fluctuates over time. Last year, I consulted with an ear, nose, and throat specialist who prescribed fluocinonide oil drops, which provided significant relief. In fact, it was the most effective treatment I've tried, allowing me the longest respite from itching episodes. However, after switching to a new health insurance plan, I was unable to return to that original specialist and instead saw a different ENT. This new doctor informed me that Debrox, an earwax removal aid I had been using upon a previous recommendation, was harmful, and he advised me to discontinue its use. Furthermore, he dismissed the fluocinonide oil as lacking credible scientific support. He introduced me to a concoction called Barrow's Solution, which he prepared himself. Strangely, it came without any accompanying ingredient information. The doctor claimed that this solution had previously been available through a pharmacy but became too costly for patients—while it only costs about $6 to make, pharmacies charged over $100 per bottle. So, he chose to create it himself, offering it for free to his patients, asserting it contained components similar to the hydrocortisone/acetic acid drops prescribed by my primary care doctor. Upon researching, I stumbled upon Burow's Solution, which, although it sounds similar, is not available for purchase or through a prescription. This raises questions about the authenticity and safety of Barrow's Solution. Should I have confidence in this unverified clear solution I received, labeled as "Barrow's Solution"? Given that this supposedly contains ingredients akin to the hydrocortisone/acetic acid solution, I have opted to continue using my pharmacy-purchased drops, as I have a substantial supply left. While the hydrocortisone/acetic acid drops still provide some relief, they take longer to work and can be painful. The fluocinonide drops were far superior, offering quick relief, and it's frustrating that my new ENT questions their efficacy despite them being previously prescribed by another specialist.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 4:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated and uncertain when navigating the treatment options for chronic ear issues, especially after trying multiple solutions. Given your long history of swimmer's ear and your experience with the fluocinonide drops, it's important to focus on effective and safe treatments.
Main Points:
- Fluocinonide oil drops were previously effective for you.
- Barrow's Solution has unclear safety and ingredient information.
- Burow's Solution may offer similar benefits but is not widely available or verified.
Explanation:
Chronic swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) can be bothersome, and it sounds like you've already tried a couple of treatments that provided varying levels of relief. Fluocinonide, a strong topical steroid, is typically used for inflammatory conditions and sometimes suggested for severe itching and irritation in the ear canal. Your ENT’s concerns about its efficacy may stem from specific guidelines or personal experience, but your positive response to this treatment is significant.
Barrow's Solution, being homemade and lacking detailed ingredient disclosure, raises valid concerns about both safety and effectiveness. The fact that it's not a commercially recognized product makes it harder to trust without clear composition and verification. Burow's Solution, while often used for similar conditions, is indeed not available as a commercial product, which adds to the confusion surrounding these treatments.
Next Steps:
- Continue using your hydrocortisone/acetic acid drops until your symptoms are better managed. Document how often you experience relief and any reactions.
- Consider reaching out to a pharmacist or another ENT specialist for clarity on both Barrow's Solution and potential alternatives. Sharing your positive experience with fluocinonide might prompt discussions about effective treatments.
- Stay clear of Debrox, especially given your ENT's advice against it. Earwax removal can sometimes exacerbate irritation, especially if you're prone to swimmer's ear.
- Maintain a symptom diary noting when symptoms occur and whether any specific activities (like swimming) trigger flare-ups, as it may help your next healthcare consultation.
If you want to better understand the ingredients in Barrow's Solution and explore evidence-based alternatives, this can empower you in discussions with any future healthcare providers you consult. Remember that it’s essential to advocate for your health and seek a second opinion if your concerns and treatment needs aren't being adequately addressed.
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