What Should I Do For A Swollen, Painful Left Ear That’s Completely Shut And Can’t Be Examined Or Treated With Oral Tablets?

Hello, A swollen, painful ear that’s completely shut is very uncomfortable and can be serious. Such symptoms commonly arise due to wax in the ears, otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) or sometimes an abscess. Get clinically examined by an ENT, to detect wax, otitis externa, AOM, or abscess. You are advised NOT to put Q-tips, pins, drops, or oil inside the ear. If the ear canal is swollen shut, putting something inside can make the swelling worse or even cause injury. It will be better to take pain-relieving tablets to reduce inflammation and pain but since you do not want to take oral medicines, a warm compress can help reduce pain. If a warm compress is not helpful, stop. Do not continue. Apply topical pain relief like lidocaine gel only around the outer ear, never inside the ear canal. It will give relief. If there is any drainage, do not block it; gently wipe the outside only. Do NOT plug with cotton. If the canal is fully swollen, ear drops may not enter, so you should not start random drops on your own. If wax is there, it will need to be removed in the OPD by an ENT. If it is AOM or otitis externa, you will need antibiotics and pain-relieving medications to relieve inflammation and pain. You are advised to get clinically examined by ENT urgently if you develop symptoms like fever, redness spreading to the face, or an ear is hot to touch, or if the swelling is getting worse every hour. You have fluid or pus leaking and are feeling dizzy. Do not stay at home; get treated at the earliest. I hope I have answered your question; take care. Feel free to ask me questions any time you like. Regards, Dr Nupur Khalkho, General & Family Physician