Persistent Ear Blockage After Antibiotics - 17M
After completing a course of antibiotics taken every eight hours for five days, the pain in my ear subsided, and the blockage resolved temporarily. To ensure cleanliness, I applied ear drops. However, just five minutes later, when I attempted to expel any remaining fluid, I found that the blockage had returned. I used water to flush it out, and after several attempts, it seemed to work. But the following day, I awoke to find my ear blocked once more. I tried the ear drops again, but they didn’t provide relief. Interestingly, when I manipulate my ear in a specific way, I can hear a suction-like sound and it temporarily clears, but it immediately re-blocks once I let go. Should I repeat that maneuver and then apply the ear drops? Looking for advice.
Answers (1)
8/29/2025, 9:43:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent ear blockage that has not resolved after antibiotic treatment. This can be frustrating, especially since you've noticed temporary relief. Hearing a suction sound suggests there could be some fluid or pressure issues in your ear.
Main Points:
- Temporary blockage relief may indicate fluid presence or pressure changes.
- Repeatedly trying to clear your ear by flushing or using drops may not be effective and might irritate the ear.
- Gentle techniques can sometimes help, but caution is necessary to avoid injury or infection.
Explanation:
The ear canal can become blocked due to fluid accumulation, pressure changes, or even earwax. After antibiotics, if infection symptoms like pain subsided but blockage remains, it may indicate lingering fluid or other non-infectious causes, such as eustachian tube dysfunction, which can prevent proper drainage and ventilation of the middle ear.
Next Steps:
-
Avoid Forceful Flushing: While it may provide temporary relief, forceful flushing or excessive manipulation can cause irritation or potential damage to your ear drum.
-
Manage Eustachian Tube Function: Gentle techniques to equalize pressure in the ear can include:
- Yawning or Swallowing: These actions can help open the eustachian tube and equalize pressure.
- Toynbee Maneuver: Pinch your nose closed and swallow to help open your eustachian tubes.
-
Continue Using Ear Drops Cautiously: If you find that the drops initially provided some relief, using them after performing the pressure equalization techniques might help. However, avoid using them repeatedly if they do not provide relief.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of how long the blockage lasts and if you experience any changes, such as pain, discharge, or hearing loss.
If the blockage persists beyond a week or worsens, consider seeking medical advice to evaluate for other underlying issues. Let me know how you're managing this!
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