Is Your Ear Infection Treatment Not Working? Explore Alternatives

Q: Is Your Ear Infection Treatment Not Working? Explore Alternatives

Hello： Middle ear effusion or Eustachian tube dysfunction can initially be treated with medication. <br>If the response is inadequate, it may be necessary to consider ongoing outpatient drainage or surgical intervention for tympanostomy tube placement to improve the condition. <b

Is the medication ineffective?

I experienced pain in my left ear in the middle of the night, so the next day I visited an ENT specialist at a nearby hospital.
I was diagnosed with left otitis media and fluid accumulation in the middle ear.
However, my ear still feels stuffy, with a sensation of fullness and a bubbling sound.
When I speak loudly, I can hear an echo of my own voice.
The fluid has not drained out.
Based on previous experience, I took medication for three days, expecting the fluid to resolve, but it did not.
I later saw a different doctor who drained the fluid, but within a few days, the fullness, bubbling sound, and echo returned.
I went back to the first doctor, who said there was negative pressure in the ear and prescribed antibiotics.
However, I have been taking this antibiotic for many years.
Is it possible that this medication is ineffective, or should I seek a second opinion elsewhere?

yao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/24

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Middle ear effusion or Eustachian tube dysfunction can initially be treated with medication.
If the response is inadequate, it may be necessary to consider ongoing outpatient drainage or surgical intervention for tympanostomy tube placement to improve the condition.
It is recommended to continue follow-up visits for treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/07/24

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating and uncomfortable situation with your ear infection and the associated symptoms. Based on your description, it appears that you have been diagnosed with otitis media (middle ear infection) and possibly some fluid accumulation (effusion) in the ear. This condition can lead to a sensation of fullness, muffled hearing, and even sounds like popping or echoing when you speak.
When it comes to treating ear infections, especially recurrent or persistent cases, it's important to consider a few key points. First, the antibiotics you have been prescribed may not be effective against the specific bacteria causing your infection. This can happen if the bacteria are resistant to the antibiotic you are taking, or if the infection is viral rather than bacterial. If you have been on the same antibiotic for an extended period, it may be worthwhile to discuss with your doctor the possibility of switching to a different medication or conducting a culture to identify the specific pathogen involved.

In addition to antibiotics, there are other treatment options that can help alleviate your symptoms and promote healing. For instance, decongestants or nasal steroids may help reduce inflammation and improve drainage from the middle ear. If fluid continues to accumulate, your doctor may recommend a procedure called tympanostomy, where small tubes are inserted into the eardrum to allow fluid to drain and to equalize pressure in the ear. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience recurrent ear infections or persistent effusion.

It's also essential to address any underlying factors that may contribute to your ear problems. Allergies, sinus infections, or even anatomical issues can play a role in the development of ear infections. If you have a history of allergies, managing them effectively may help reduce the frequency of your ear infections. Additionally, avoiding exposure to irritants such as smoke or pollutants can also be beneficial.

Regarding your concern about whether to seek a second opinion or change doctors, it's always a good idea to advocate for your health. If you feel that your current treatment plan is not working or if your symptoms are worsening, don't hesitate to consult another healthcare professional. A fresh perspective may provide new insights or alternative treatment options that could be more effective for your situation.

In summary, if your ear infection treatment is not yielding the desired results, consider the following steps:
1. Consult with your doctor: Discuss the possibility of changing your antibiotic or conducting a culture to identify the bacteria involved.

2. Explore additional treatments: Ask about decongestants, nasal steroids, or the possibility of tympanostomy if fluid accumulation persists.

3. Address underlying issues: Manage allergies and avoid irritants that may contribute to your ear problems.

4. Seek a second opinion: If you feel your current treatment is inadequate, consulting another doctor may provide new options.

It's crucial to stay proactive about your health and communicate openly with your healthcare providers. With the right approach, you can find relief from your symptoms and improve your ear health.

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