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Suggest Treatment For Recurrent Ear Infections
Question: Hi. I've had recurrent ear infections, constant fluid build up in my ears which comes with constant dizziness, pain in my throat when I lay down, inflammed nasals for the last four months. I've been to my doctor and have tried antibiotics, steroids orally, steroid injections, dymista nasal spray, Nettie pots, humidifier, singulair, and nothing changes. Doctor does not feel it is allergies. What could it be? Could there be an underlying cause? What should I request at my next appointment. I am always dizzy and I general feel like crap.
Brief Answer:
Rule out nasal condition...
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Well, yes there could be an underlying cause. Though a physical examination is necessary to identify the cause, I will consider nasal condition like chronic sinusitis with post nasal drips +/- deviated nasal septum as the most likely cause. Other possibilities such as acid reflux or otitis media may also be responsible.
Since steroid use did not help you, perhaps your doctor does not feel it is allergy. He may be right. In this context I will recommend an ENT referral for clinical evaluation. We should perform X-ray / CT scan of your nose and sinus areas. A complete blood count should also be ordered.
Hope this helps.
Regards
PS: Besides allergies, vasomotor rhinnitis, structural changes, eustachian tube dysfunction and even autoimmune condition may be triggering sinusitis.
Rule out nasal condition...
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Well, yes there could be an underlying cause. Though a physical examination is necessary to identify the cause, I will consider nasal condition like chronic sinusitis with post nasal drips +/- deviated nasal septum as the most likely cause. Other possibilities such as acid reflux or otitis media may also be responsible.
Since steroid use did not help you, perhaps your doctor does not feel it is allergy. He may be right. In this context I will recommend an ENT referral for clinical evaluation. We should perform X-ray / CT scan of your nose and sinus areas. A complete blood count should also be ordered.
Hope this helps.
Regards
PS: Besides allergies, vasomotor rhinnitis, structural changes, eustachian tube dysfunction and even autoimmune condition may be triggering sinusitis.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I did have a CT scan of my nasals to rule out a blockage and my CT scan came out normal. Does that change anything?
Brief Answer:
ENT referral should be in the pipe line..
Detailed Answer:
A normal CT scan offcourse rules out deviated nasal septum and to certain extent sinusitis. But your symptoms are very typical of someone having post nasal drip. Therefore other causes as mentioned in my post script - vasomotor rhinnitis and ET tube dysfunction or even acid reflux should be considered.
I strongly feel you will benefit after an ENT surgeon's referral. A good clinical examination will help us get closer to the actual cause.
Hope this helps.
Regards
ENT referral should be in the pipe line..
Detailed Answer:
A normal CT scan offcourse rules out deviated nasal septum and to certain extent sinusitis. But your symptoms are very typical of someone having post nasal drip. Therefore other causes as mentioned in my post script - vasomotor rhinnitis and ET tube dysfunction or even acid reflux should be considered.
I strongly feel you will benefit after an ENT surgeon's referral. A good clinical examination will help us get closer to the actual cause.
Hope this helps.
Regards
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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