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Audiology/Otolaryngology/Dizziness, ear ache = ear infection?

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 3/25/2009


Question
Hello. Yesterday evening at the gym, a gym buddy of mine used one of my earbuds to listen to a song. I don't share earbuds because it's gross, but I didn't know she was going to put it in her ear. After, I went to the bathroom and washed it off with warm water and wiped it off with a towel before using it myself. The next day I woke up with a minor headache, very dizzy, and clogged up ears. There is not much pain in the ears (both), just feels like I'm on the airplane. And I feel dizzy. Is it possible to get an ear infection after sharing earbuds even if you wash them? Could I have an ear infection after less than 24 hours? I don't have good health insurance so I hope it is not an ear infection. Thank you much!

Answer
Hi Lisa,
Although there is an slight chance the two occurrences may be related, I really doubt it especially since your symptoms showed up so rapidly.
You do need to see a specialist to find out what exactly is wrong with your ears.  It just may be a coincidence how your ears feel and there may be something more serious happening.  But without a proper assessment by a specialist, you will not receive proper treatment.

Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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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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