What Causes Ear Infection Followed By Sore Throat And Congestion In Head?

Posted on Thu, 18 Dec 2014

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

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 Answered on

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have gone to ent doctor first ear infection three later didn't feel good went back double ear infection put me on med went back last week ear infection cleared up now I have a sore throat my head feels like it in a fish bowl I used afrin and simple saline nothing seems to help

Answered by Dr. Naveen (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Unresolved sinusitis with pharyngitis... Needs steroid nasal spray...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

After going through the history, I am of the opinion that you could be having pharyngitis secondary to sinusitis. I do feel, the sinusitis is not completely resolved, that is the reason for the discomfort of the head and the throat pain. Do not worry! With the appropriate measures, the problem can be taken care of.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Continue with saline nasal spray
2. Apart from saline nasal spray, you may also require a potent nasal steroid spray such as fluticasone or momentasone to reduce allergic component and decongest the sinus openings.
3. Also, an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or diclofenac is required to take care of the sore throat.
4. Do steam inhalation 2-3 times a day for at least 3 minutes.
5. Avoid coffee/smoking/chilled food and beverages.

With the above measures you should definitely feel better. If there is no improvement even after 3-4 days with the above measures, please consult your doctor for a complete evaluation of the nose and the sinuses and throat.

Hope I have answered the query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad