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Suggest Treatment For Presence Of Fluid Behind The Ear

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Posted on Wed, 26 Aug 2015
Question: Hi, Dr. Rhynne: I have been told by med professionals I have fluid behind my right eardrum. I was given antibiotics (Z-pack) and nasal decongestant spray (Nasonex) to remedy it when I visited a local doctor, but to no avail. I have had the condition for almost a year, and although it is not painful, I can hear my heartbeat or pulse throbbing, and the thump-thump-thumping is driving me crazy. Do I need surgery to drain this, or are there any OTC's I can try first? I am out-of-state for the next several months and my insurance does not cover healthcare here, so if I can avoid doctoring until I return home, it would save me out of pocket expenses. I await any suggestions! Thank you for your time. XXXXXXX
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Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Fluid behind ear treat with nasal decongestant

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for contacting HCM with your healthcare questions

You have had chronic ear pressure and fluid behind your ear. This has gone on for almost a year despite repeat antibiotics nasal steroids. So far no results and now severe thumping in your ear. The only other option I could suggest is using a nasal decongestant like afrin. This will reduce the swelling of the nasal tissue an perhaps reduce the pressure in your ears. Do not use the nasal spray for any longer than 3-4 days as you can become addicted to the spray.

When you get back home you may need to have ear tubes placed to help reduce the pressure and fluid build up.

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again with your healthcare concerns and questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ronald Schubert

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1984

Answered : 2407 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Presence Of Fluid Behind The Ear

Brief Answer: Fluid behind ear treat with nasal decongestant Detailed Answer: Thanks for contacting HCM with your healthcare questions You have had chronic ear pressure and fluid behind your ear. This has gone on for almost a year despite repeat antibiotics nasal steroids. So far no results and now severe thumping in your ear. The only other option I could suggest is using a nasal decongestant like afrin. This will reduce the swelling of the nasal tissue an perhaps reduce the pressure in your ears. Do not use the nasal spray for any longer than 3-4 days as you can become addicted to the spray. When you get back home you may need to have ear tubes placed to help reduce the pressure and fluid build up. I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again with your healthcare concerns and questions