Persistent Ear Infection for Two Months
I am a 36-year-old woman experiencing an ongoing ear infection that began in early June. Initially, I noticed a sensation of blockage in my ears, for which I started using olive oil drops. While I was on vacation, the left ear began to experience significant pain, prompting me to seek urgent care. A doctor had to irrigate my ears, as both were completely blocked. Upon returning home, I visited my doctor and received a prescription for steroid ear drops. I was directed to use these for one week, but there was no improvement. After extending the treatment for another week, I still found no relief. The pain subsided, but I started to feel increased pressure inside and around my ear. I consulted my doctor once more, and although my eardrum appeared to be fine, I was prescribed otomize spray for a subsequent week due to slight discharge. Unfortunately, this did not alleviate my symptoms either. The pressure and discomfort intensified, leading me to seek help again, at which point I was given amoxicillin. This medication reduced the pain but did not address the pressure issues. I have noticed that the pressure worsens with movement or exposure to cold temperatures, and my hearing has become muffled. Sometimes, it feels somewhat relieved when I open my mouth wide. The discomfort extends from the area in front of my tragus, down toward the lower part of my ear and my jawline, and when I touch this spot, it feels numb. I also hear a ringing sound intermittently and can sense my heartbeat in that region. Currently, I am on a seven-day course of co-amoxiclav along with decongestants, and I have a follow-up appointment scheduled in two weeks. It's worth noting that two weeks ago, my eardrum appeared to be in good condition, but during my latest visit, the doctor was unable to inspect it thoroughly due to pain during the examination. This ongoing issue has left me feeling very distressed and worried. Can anyone explain what might be happening with my ear?
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 11:50:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re going through a challenging time with your ear symptoms, and it’s understandable that you feel distressed after experiencing ongoing discomfort and pressure for such a long duration. Persistent ear infections can lead to various complications, so let’s clarify what might be happening and provide some actionable steps.
Summary of Main Points:
- You may be experiencing ongoing Eustachian tube dysfunction or residual effects of an ear infection.
- Symptoms like pressure, muffled hearing, and pain can indicate fluid retention behind the eardrum or inflammation.
- Continued monitoring of your symptoms is crucial, and you have a follow-up appointment planned, which is positive.
Explanation:
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Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube connects your middle ear to the back of your throat and helps equalize pressure. If this tube doesn’t function properly (due to swelling from an infection, for example), it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear and muffled hearing.
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Potential Residual Infection: While the antibiotics may reduce pain, any lingering infection or fluid can continue to cause discomfort and pressure. The ringing sound and the sensation of your heartbeat in the area could be linked to this.
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Impact of Movement and Temperature: Symptoms worsening with movement or cold exposure often indicate that pressure changes within the ear are affecting your Eustachian tube or middle ear.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Patience with Medications: Continue with your current course of co-amoxiclav and decongestants as prescribed. Monitor your symptoms closely for improvement or any worsening.
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Nasal Hygiene: Use a saline nasal spray or perform nasal irrigation to keep your nasal passages clear. This can help improve Eustachian tube function and reduce pressure.
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Avoid Irritants: Minimize exposure to cold air if it seems to worsen your symptoms. Also, avoid smoking or being around smoke, as it can irritate your Eustachian tube.
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Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear may help relieve some discomfort and pressure.
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Jaw Movement: Since you’ve noted some relief when opening your mouth wide, gentle jaw exercises might help alleviate pressure. Just be cautious not to aggravate the pain.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Note any changes in your symptoms, including pain levels, hearing issues, and any new sensations. This can be helpful during your follow-up appointment.
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Follow-Up: During your upcoming appointment, express all your concerns clearly, especially about the lingering pressure and muffled hearing. If symptoms persist or worsen, it may warrant further evaluation such as imaging or referral to an ear specialist.
Please remember that while it’s normal to feel worried, you are taking the right steps by reaching out for information and having follow-ups scheduled. Continue to monitor your symptoms and effectively communicate with your healthcare provider. If you have any more questions or need further support, feel free to ask.
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