Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 9/14/2009

Question
Hello
First, I want to say, I have had all of the following before, blocked ear, itchy roof of my mouth, sneezing sometimes...., sometimes wake up with a watery eye all of which is always temporary. I can't stress enough that I've had all this before. I've had a blocked right ear for a few days, went away now back.  I know I have allergies during certain times of the year. And my sinus drain, with a foul taste, and smell in my nose. After that being said and I hope I don't bore you but I'd like to explain what has happened. When I was with a few people I casually mentioned I had this blocked ear. One said Oh dear I hate to frighten you but tumors are the cause of that. I'm also suseptible to panic attacks. and this sometimes leaves me with a temporary depression.
I know this makes me sound like someone who is mentally ill.  I am not. I'm a functioning person, out and about daily with friends and an active life.  Anxiety affects many people, because we are perfectionists..please believe me I'm mentally sound.  But since I've heard this & in spite of friends telling me I've had all this before, and that I do have allergy symptoms, & nothing is really wrong, now I'm paniced that something is terribly wrong, consciously I know I'm fine, but unconsciously illogical thinking.  I'd like to hear from you that allergies do cause these symptoms.  actually my ear isn't as blocked as before. & the roof of my mouth is itchy as I'm writing this.   Thank you for listening & I hope you believe that mentally I'm OK, just want things perfect...didn't want to write a novel but felt I had to explain...thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Jan,
For complete peace of mind, I suggest you consult an ear-nose-throat specialist who would be better able to give you the proper information, rather than some well-meaning but tactless friend.

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