Seeking Help for Persistent Ear Issues after Alcohol Cessation
Hey everyone, I'm reaching out for some advice since I couldn't find a dedicated ENT forum. I’m a 34-year-old woman from Australia, and I’ve recently stopped drinking after battling with alcohol dependency for the last four years. Thank goodness it’s been two months since I quit. Five years ago, I was diagnosed with mild gastritis, which took about nine months to resolve. However, following a difficult divorce, my drinking escalated over the past four and a half years, leading me to suspect that I might have developed a hiatal hernia. I have a gastroscopy scheduled for next month, which I’m really grateful for. Throughout the past year, I've experienced a range of strange symptoms. I was found to have a 2 cm cyst in my left sinus, for which I underwent two months of steroid treatment. I'm not sure if it’s completely gone, as I occasionally feel a sensation that suggests it might still be there. On the right side, I had a persistent thumping sensation in my ear that lasted for about four weeks, during which medical professionals seemed unresponsive despite my multiple hospital visits concerning this and other issues. The cyst was also causing facial numbness and tingling on that side. At one point, it felt like the cyst ruptured, as I experienced sharp pain and numbness for several hours. The discovery of the cyst came after consulting with my autoimmune specialist, as I sought answers for my balance issues, which were seemingly overlooked by the hospital as soon as they found out I had an anxiety disorder. Eventually, the thumping in my right ear subsided, but I did develop an ear infection on that side, which has since cleared up. Occasionally, I still notice some thumping there. Unfortunately, the ENT refused to investigate my right ear because it wasn’t included in the referral, directing me instead to a neurologist that I can't afford to visit yet. Fast forward to now—since I quit drinking, my left ear has started to thump, and at night, I often experience popping noises when I swallow, which can last for several hours. I also struggle with acid reflux. I’m exhausted from visiting specialists only to feel rushed along, as if they don’t truly care. It’s financially draining to go from one doctor to another without finding solutions. As I work on my recovery, the ongoing ear issues are particularly disheartening. I lack energy and feel unable to cut back on caffeine since my eating habits are not ideal, leading to fatigue. I’ve had tests, and my iron levels are normal, while my past hyperthyroidism has been resolved, and I haven't had any problems since. Could these ear symptoms be related to my history with Graves’ disease, thyroid issues, or even my gastrointestinal problems? I feel really overwhelmed by all of this. I'm sorry for the lengthy post—it seems like it's just one thing after another, and I’m uncertain of where to turn for help. The last time I visited the ENT, they simply checked my sinuses with a camera, claimed everything looked fine, and sent me on my way. I'm at a loss about what to do next. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 11:02:18 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: Persistent ear issues can be frustrating, especially after alcohol cessation. It's essential to explore possible links between your symptoms, gastrointestinal problems, and previous thyroid issues. Prioritize self-care techniques while addressing your ear symptoms.
Explanation: Given your history of gastritis, potential hiatal hernia, and previous thyroid conditions, your current ear symptoms (thumping sensations, popping noises) may have several underlying causes. Stress, anxiety, and hormonal changes can contribute to ear sensations and may be exacerbated by gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux. Additionally, sinus issues can refer sensations to your ears. Staying alcohol-free is a significant step toward recovery, but your physical symptoms may require careful management as well.
Here’s how to address your current concerns:
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily diary of your ear symptoms, noting their frequency, duration, and any associated activities (like eating or stress). This might help identify triggers.
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Hydration and Diet: Ensure you’re well-hydrated and incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid caffeine and acidic foods that can aggravate acid reflux. Instead, focus on foods that can soothe your gastrointestinal tract (like oatmeal, bananas, and yogurt).
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Acid Reflux Management: Use over-the-counter antacids or consider lifestyle changes like smaller meals, avoiding late-night eating, and elevating your head while sleeping to minimize symptoms. If symptoms persist, consult your gastroscopy results for further guidance.
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Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to help manage anxiety, which might indirectly ease the ear symptoms.
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Follow-Up with ENT or Specialists: If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consider reaching out to an ENT again. Request a more specific evaluation regarding your ear, emphasizing how these symptoms impact your quality of life. If you feel rushed, don’t hesitate to ask for a more thorough explanation or a referral to another specialist.
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Support Networks: Seek support groups or online forums for individuals recovering from alcohol dependency. Connecting with others in similar situations can provide emotional support and practical advice.
While navigating your health issues can be challenging, taking these steps can empower you to manage your symptoms more effectively. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are paths to regain your well-being. If you need more detailed guidance or emotional support, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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