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Perforated ear drum following middle ear infection

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Claire1963
Claire1963

Hi, 3 weeks ago ear drum perforated following upper respiratory tract infection with severe ear infection. Have been to ENT who has confirmed diagnosis and advises to wait 6 weeks and if worried about hearing loss get referral back, However, I still feel so ill, ear is still discharging sticky fluid, I find it easier to lie down as when I stand or sit up the feeling of fullness in my ear is horrible and I feel sick and giddy. Just wondering if this is normal. Bit anxious as I don't feel that eardrum would heal with the discharge. Any help, advice gratefully received.

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Olizzieo
    Olizzieo Claire1963

    Posted

    Hi Claire it is normal with an ear infection. Have you been given antibiotics and ear drops? If you are worried then phone the ENT and explain what is happening. If they are not concerned they will let you know. Often they will ask you to come in earlier if they feel other medication or re-examination is warranted. Either way, you will feel more at ease if you do have to sit these symptoms out until they have gone, knowing that the ENT is not concerned. xx
    • Claire1963
      Claire1963 Olizzieo

      Posted

      Hi Ollizzieo, thank you for your reply. Yes, I had a 7 day course of oral antibiotics and finished them two weeks ago. Many thanks for your advice. X x

  • Olizzieo
    Olizzieo Claire1963

    Posted

    You definitely need to see your ENT as soon as possible. If you can, go to your emergency department (not sure where you live or if it is free.) Sometimes getting a second opinion from an ENT and some different medication or swabs of the discharge to see if what was prescribed is correct, is the best thing you can do. When my daughter was little we went to emergency and saw an ENT but her ear infection didn't improve. I took her to an ENT who suctioned the discharge and gave her different medication, and it healed very quickly.
    • Claire1963
      Claire1963 Olizzieo

      Posted

      Hi, I'm in UK and will take your advice and see ENT as soon as I can. I've had it suctioned twice already. I was diagnosed with dysfunctional eustachian tube many years ago and suspect ear not draining may be root of problem. Happy days! Claire x x
    • Olizzieo
      Olizzieo Claire1963

      Posted

      I am surprised that if this is ongoing, that you haven't had a grommet or balloon dilation of your eustachian tube. I know there are specialists performing dilation in the UK if you search around. Your ENT may be able to tell you if you are suitable for this. xx
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