What Causes Pain In Ear, Tinnitus And Painful Swallowing?

Posted on Wed, 14 Oct 2015

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

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 Answered on

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Dr,

I have had this ear ache for the past two days now. It is more of an acheing pain especially when I swallow and I also have a bit of tintius, but apart from that I do not have any other symptons . I'm just wondering what else I can do to treat it and when I should go see a doctor? I was taking Nurefoen for it but it wasn't doing that much so I switched to Pandol which is working a little better. I also should add it that I have suffered from ear infections quite a few times this year but this one is a little different with there being no itchiness and the tintius not being as bad.

Kind Regards,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Pavan Kumar Gupta (2 hours later)

Brief answer....it seems to be due to some underlying infection.

Detailed answer....
Hello,
Thanks for the query.
I have read your query and understand your concern.
The most likely cause for pain in ear associated with tinnitus is middle ear infection. I would to treat you with antibiotics and not just panadol since panadol alone is not going to make you all right completely.
These antibiotics that I am talking about are not over the counter drugs. So please make an appointment with your primary physician for a prescription.

You may also add an antihistamine zyrtec (available over the counter) - one tablet a day for 3 days. Steam inhalation will relieve eustachian tube congestion which may be associated with middle ear infection.

I hope it helps,however you are most welcome to revert to me for any further query.
Best of luck
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Pavan Kumar Gupta (18 minutes later)

Thanks for the reply, I have had antibiotics previously for the ear infection would it be worth waiting it out a couple of days to see it if it gets better before I go on them? I'm just afraid of having too many antibiotics which I have had this year.

Answered by Dr. Pavan Kumar Gupta (1 minute later)

Hello,
Since your problem is not that acute,you may wait for few days and see whether your symtoms improve or deterioate. at any stage if you find that your symptoms are deteriorating,you can consult your doctor immediately.
Thanks

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. Prasad