Suspected Ongoing Ear, Nose, and Throat Issue? Seeking Advice
AGE: 30 YEARS OLD / GENDER: FEMALE / HEIGHT: 5'0 / MAINTAINS A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE *I’VE SCHEDULED AN ENT APPOINTMENT,* but it's not until next week. Approximately two months ago, I experienced what appeared to be a sinus infection. An X-ray revealed the presence of fluid and a polyp in my left nostril. Initially, I was treated with amoxicillin, and my symptoms improved. Shortly afterward, I went paddleboarding in a lake where swimming was permissible. However, in the past month, I've been suffering from persistent, intense ear throbbing, accompanied by a sizable lump behind my ear and two smaller ones. I consulted a clinician who suspected mastoiditis and prescribed a week’s course of amoxiclav. Upon completing that treatment, the smaller lumps disappeared, and the larger one has diminished somewhat, but discomfort persists in my ear. Following this, my clinician prescribed a week-long treatment with ciprofloxacin, which has yet to yield any noticeable relief. Additionally, I am experiencing sinus pressure again. I consulted my general practitioner, who indicated that my left ear has a bulging eardrum. She recommended using a saline nasal rinse followed by a sinus steroid spray, both to be administered twice daily. Fortunately, I managed to secure an earlier appointment with an ENT specialist through a cancellation, and I’m eager to seek clarity regarding my condition. (My dentist found no signs of a tooth infection, and a follow-up X-ray to examine my mastoid indicated no further issues with infection or impaction.) Does anyone have insights into what might be causing these symptoms?
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 1:11:26 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with a complex and frustrating situation regarding your ear, nose, and throat symptoms. The key points to address your concerns include your ongoing ear discomfort, the presence of lumps behind your ear, sinus pressure, and the treatments you have already undergone.
Explanation:
Your symptoms, including the ear throbbing, bulging eardrum, and sinus pressure, may be interconnected but could stem from different underlying issues. The history of a sinus infection and the polyp noted may also contribute to your current situation. The fact that the lump behind your ear has diminished but still causes discomfort indicates that while there may have been some improvement, the issue hasn’t resolved completely.
The prescribed saline nasal rinse and steroid spray are important treatments for managing inflammation and pressure in the sinuses. Since you are already scheduled to see an ENT specialist, this should provide an opportunity for a more detailed evaluation of your symptoms.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Continue Current Treatments: Follow through with the saline nasal rinse and sinus steroid spray as recommended. Consistency can be crucial in alleviating inflammation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain, sinus pressure, or the size of the lump behind your ear. This information will be helpful for your ENT appointment.
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Rest and Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated and taking time to rest. This can support your recovery and help your body manage inflammation.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Ensure you follow dosing instructions.
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Prepare for Your ENT Appointment: Bring along any relevant medical records or previous X-ray results, and prepare a list of questions regarding your symptoms and treatment options.
Final Note:
You are taking proactive steps by securing an earlier appointment with an ENT specialist, which is essential in guiding your further treatment. Do not hesitate to discuss all your symptoms and concerns during that visit. I hope you find relief soon!
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