Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 3/18/2009

Question
I have had ear problems ever since I got a really bad ear infection about 2 years ago. Whenever I get a cold I get plugged ears and popping, crackling sounds in my ears that last a few months. This last episode I had in November 2008 has not cleared completely. I have seen 2 ENTs that tell me that my eustachian tube is still healing but it has been such a long time. I am afraid that this condition will never go away and/or that it will get progressively worse whenever I catch a cold. I am currently on nasal steroids but really don't like being on prescription medicines and it doesn't seem to help anyway. Any suggestions on how I can remedy this problem with natural meds or anything that works? My ENT said the next step would be surgery to remove my adenoids and shrink my turbinates.

Answer
Hello Carol,
Thanks for writing.  The way we would approach this with natural therapies would first be to rule out the conditions that might be preventing your health from returning.  Commonly, this is an underlying environmental or food sensitivity, or it might a more serious condition.  Environmental sensitivities can be uncovered with history by a well-trained practitioner in environmental medicine, or testing which any allergist can do.  Food sensitivities can be uncovered by blood tests or food elimination and challenge, which may require the guidance of a natural nutritionist or naturopathic doctor (www.naturopathic.org).  Once these are diagnosed and eliminated, it allows the immune system to function optimally.  Because that can be a lengthy process, you can use some supplements or herbs to strengthen the immune system & promote drainage in the meantime.  Typical ones are vitamin C with bioflavonoids, quercetin, bromelain, NAC, fish oil, butterbur, and flax oil, usually a combination works best.  Another helpful treatment for chronic nasal, sinus, and ear problems (really, they are all related) is a Neti Pot, or another type of nasal rinse used 1-2 times a day for prevention.  In addition, it is always a good idea to maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as an organic whole foods diet, good hydration, reguar exercise, sun, and air exposure, quality sleep, and stress management.  If you consult a practitioner in person, they will be able to suggest more specific treatments after a full assessment, but any of these things will likely help and have limited chance of harm.  
Good luck,
Dr Conner