Audiology/Otolaryngology/Constant ear fluid...

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Question
Hi there,

Many mornings I will wake up and my ear feels like it has fluid in it, but won't be stopped up at that time,although it periodically stops up when I talk. Soon after the ear becomes completely stopped up and takes hours for it to clear up. It is always my left ear and has been happening for years, I have flushed out my ear many times and it doesn't seem to help. Do you have any suggestions on what might be causing this and what I need to do?

Thanks a bunch!

Answer
Hi Heather,
With constant stuffiness that has been happening for years, you need to consult an ear specialist. It can be anything ranging from Eustachian Tube dysfunction to chronic irritation of the middle ear lining. The only way to know what it is is to consult a physician.  And while you're there, you should have your hearing checked as well.

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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