Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 8/7/2008

Question
I recently got over a cold. Now I have a full feeling in my right ear. I have had feelings like this in the past but have been able to get rid of them by "popping" my ears yawning etc. I went to an urgent care facility and the doctor diagnosed ETD, and prescribed a steroid pack and advised a heating pad. Neither of these things have offered any relief, and I am going crazy from this incessant feeling. There is no pain and no actual drainage although it feels like something is draining "inside" my ear. Does this sound like ETD? And will the prescribed treatments or any others work, and how long do they usually take? Please advise, I am at the end of my rope. This situation is both irritating and depressing to me
I am 27.

Thank you

Answer
Hi Rachel,
What you described does sound as if it started out as ETD.  Usually the steroids and nasal sprays will open the tube; however, if the ET remains closed, there is the chance that there will be a fluid build-up in the middle ear.  If the fluid cannot be reabsorbed into the middle ear cavity, usually due to a closed ET, then it can become infected.  At this point, you need to see an ear specialist (ENT) and an audiologist who can not only evaluate your hearing but can also do a test known as tympanometry that will detect if there is fluid in the middle ear.  If there is fluid, then the ENT will provide the proper treatment, either a nasal spray that will help to open the ET or antibiotics if there is an infection. If there is fluid and these treatments do not help, then the ENT is able to drain the fluid and give you relief. Treatment may take a few weeks to fully alleviate the problem. You should not be depressed as this most likely can be treated.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology


Hope this helps.