Ear Congestion: Water Sensation and Inflammation Issues - Otolaryngology

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your ear congestion and the sensation of water in your ear. It sounds like you are experiencing a frustrating situation, and I can understand your concern.
From what you've described, it seems that you have been dealing with a sensation of fullness or congestion in your ear after water exposure during bathing. You mentioned that you have already consulted an ENT specialist who found no signs of fluid accumulation or earwax buildup, but noted some redness and inflammation in the ear canal. This inflammation can indeed lead to a variety of symptoms, including muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, and even a sensation that water is trapped in the ear.

The ear canal is lined with sensitive skin, and any inflammation or irritation can disrupt normal function. When the ear canal is inflamed, it can cause swelling, which may lead to a feeling of pressure or fullness. This can also affect how sound is transmitted through the ear, making it seem as if your hearing is impaired or "muffled." The sensation of hearing water sloshing around, even when there is no actual fluid present, can be attributed to this inflammation. It is not uncommon for patients to feel as though there is fluid in their ears when there is actually none, especially if there is accompanying inflammation.

Using cotton swabs or rolled-up tissue to probe the ear canal is not recommended, as this can push debris further into the ear or irritate the canal more, potentially worsening the inflammation. Instead, it is best to avoid inserting anything into the ear canal and to allow it to heal naturally.
If your symptoms persist despite the initial examination and treatment, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion from another ENT specialist. They may perform additional tests, such as tympanometry or audiometry, to assess the function of your middle ear and hearing more thoroughly.
In some cases, persistent ear congestion can be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, where the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat does not open properly. This can lead to pressure changes and a sensation of fullness. If this is suspected, treatments may include nasal decongestants, antihistamines, or even nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation and promote drainage.

In summary, yes, inflammation in the ear canal can certainly lead to the symptoms you are experiencing. If the sensation of fullness and muffled hearing continues, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, discharge, or fever, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best course of action to relieve your symptoms and ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!