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Question
I had a super bad sinus infection (June). Did 30 days of antibiotics. Ears still hurt. Went to ENT did steroids oral and spray. Ears still hurt. Had hearing test - decreased hearning, no water behind drums, ear canal red/inflamed and ears still hurt. Now what?
Hi Sharilou,
Unfortunately, if you had a very bad infection, it may take some time for the pain to completely subside. Chances are your Eustachian tube is still not functioning properly and you are not able to maintain normal pressure in your middle ear. This mean that your eardrum may be retracted inward and not moving as well as it should. It may take as much as three months for it to completely resolve. Sometimes a warm compress over the ear may help with the pain. Sometimes an over-the-counter analgesic, like Motrin or Tylenol, may help with the pain and inflammation. Check with your doctor and make sure it's okay to do these. If the pain is really bad, maybe the doctor can give you a prescription pain medication.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
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Answers by Expert:
Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.
Expertise
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.
Experience
I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.
Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, -
American Speech Language Hearing Association, -
Hearing Loss Association of America
Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology)
Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
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