I Was Getting Sharp Pains In My Right Ear &

Posted on Mon, 7 Jan 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 7 Jan 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I was getting sharp pains in my right ear & was diagnosed by a nurse practitioner to have a probable ear infection & was put on amoxicillin 3 days ago. The nurse noticed a "pimple-like" bump behind my right ear and prescribed triamcinolone acetonide cream. The ear aches have diminished in frequency & severity, but a rash has spread to the lower back of my head & neck area primarily on the right side 1" to 3" from my right ear. I also started getting mild, short burst headaches on the right side of my temple area.

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probable reaction to Amoxicillin

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to Ask A Doctor service.

I have reviewed your query and photos and here is my advice.

As per your description, this seems to be allergic rash to Amoxicillin, as it started after its use. We can try discontinuing Amoxicillin and observe if it gets better.

Second diagnosis that seems likely is Shingles rash - its extending in a dermatome and causing pain. Does rash have fluid filled in it? Triamcinolone may make it worse.

Check with your nurse or doctor if she agrees with the recommendation.

Hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Dr Vaishalee

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj