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tankgurl · Aug 19, 2009, 12:26 PM

I haven't used this site before so I might have posted this twice.

I have an inner ear clog in the eustachian tube as confirmed by my GP doctor. There's no infection anymore, it was caused by a cold and ear infection but everything went away except the ear clog. My doctor tried 2 anitbiotics and a steriod, then recommended I see an ENT. The thing is I don't have insurance and don't think I can afford the ENT. I've also had ear problems before, about 3 years ago which let to me having sinus surgery. So right now I am frustrated and am trying to figure out my next step. I did try the "www.earadicator.com - clogged ear remedy" like 10 times in one night and no help. I also tried Afrin, but no help. Any advice would be great. I just don't want to spend all the money going the ENT route, when years ago the same thing happened and the ENTs could't do anything except recommend surgery.

Thanks.

tickle · Aug 20, 2009, 06:03 AM

I guess you have to decide how much your health is worth and whether you want your hearing intact as you age.

Tick

LearningAsIGo · Aug 28, 2009, 09:24 AM

I'm in the same spot and my doctor recommended tubes for my ears. I haven't had the surgery myself yet.

I don't recommend doing any home remedies - the ear canal (especially with the problem you have) can be very sensitive and you wouldn't want to risk your hearing.

Look into certain massages around the outside of the ear, and even inside your mouth that can help alleviate pressure. If the doctor is recommending surgery - unfortunately - that is probably your best bet.

I've also found that lying my head on a heating pad for 10 - 15 minutes made it feel much better. Just don't do it for too long without letting your ear/head cool down for a while.

artlady · Aug 28, 2009, 10:02 AM

You could try Benadryl but be warned that it can make you drowsy or sleepy.

You may need the ear drained,I would revisit the GP and ask him if he can do that procedure on you.

My son has had multiple ear surgeries over the years and it is never wise to put off getting expert advice as it can compromise your hearing permanently.

andrewr2 · Oct 14, 2009, 09:50 PM

Don't trust a GP about Eustachian tube (ET) block. Many symptoms of a clogged ear are not due to ET block but to something else. Do you hear a tiny crackle in your clogged ear if you yawn or swallow? Can you "pop" your ear by blocking your nose and blowing? If so, your Eustachian tube is not clogged. Do you hear a noise if you open and close the jaw? Do you clench/grind your teeth. Does your dentist say your teeth are worn? If so you may have a problem with your jaw joint, a very common cause for clogged ears. Avoid antibiotics, decongestants, nasal sprays or other expensive interventions for this until you have seen someone who knows how to diagnose it properly (an ear nurse or GP with a tympanometer or a specialist ENT.)