Ear Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Ear problems

When I was a child, I had part of my eustachian tube removed due to inflammation.
Recently, after using ear drops prescribed by a doctor for otitis externa, I noticed that my ear has become numb inside (I can still hear, but I feel numbness when I dig or press inside my ear).
This has persisted for a month.
I have tried cleaning my ear, but it hasn't helped (only the outer part).
Six months ago, I visited a doctor at the San Chong Municipal Hospital, who mentioned that there was a small perforation in my left eardrum and suggested waiting to see if it would heal on its own.
However, during a recent visit (with a different doctor), I was told that the perforation had healed.
The first doctor used a device that allowed us to see the eardrum clearly, while the second doctor only used a standard otoscope.
Should I consider seeking a second opinion at another hospital?

Yan Yi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you are not at ease, you can seek a second opinion from another physician.
A perforated eardrum may heal on its own.
Both an endoscope and a standard otoscope can be used to accurately examine the eardrum.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/29

More Info

When dealing with ear issues, especially those that involve a history of inflammation or surgical interventions like the partial removal of the eustachian tube, it is crucial to monitor symptoms closely and seek appropriate medical advice. Based on your description, you have experienced a loss of sensation in your ear, which has persisted for a month, and you have a history of a perforated eardrum that was previously assessed for healing. Here are some considerations regarding your situation.

When to Seek Further Medical Advice
1. Duration of Symptoms: Since your symptoms have lasted for a month, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Persistent changes in sensation, especially after treatment for external ear infections, warrant a thorough examination. The fact that you have a history of ear issues makes it even more critical to ensure that there are no underlying complications.

2. Previous Medical Evaluations: You mentioned that a previous doctor used a more advanced tool to assess your eardrum, while a subsequent evaluation was done with a less sophisticated instrument. This discrepancy in diagnostic methods can lead to different interpretations of your ear's condition. If you have doubts about the accuracy of the recent assessment, seeking a second opinion from an ENT specialist who can perform a comprehensive examination, including tympanometry or audiometry, would be prudent.

3. Symptoms of Concern: The loss of sensation in your ear, coupled with a history of ear infections and a perforated eardrum, raises concerns about potential complications such as eustachian tube dysfunction, middle ear infections, or even issues related to the inner ear. If you experience additional symptoms such as pain, discharge, or worsening hearing loss, these would further necessitate immediate medical attention.

4. Diagnostic Tools: Advanced diagnostic tools, such as an otoscope with a camera or tympanometry, can provide a clearer picture of your ear's health. If possible, seek out an ENT specialist who has access to these tools to ensure a thorough evaluation.

Additional Considerations
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Given your history of eustachian tube issues, it is possible that you are experiencing dysfunction again, which can lead to pressure imbalances and sensations of fullness or numbness in the ear. This can occur due to allergies, infections, or anatomical changes.

- Hearing Assessment: Since you have experienced changes in sensation, it may be beneficial to undergo a hearing test. This can help determine if there is any conductive or sensorineural hearing loss that needs to be addressed.

- Treatment Options: Depending on the findings from your next evaluation, treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation, allergy management, or even surgical options if there are significant structural issues.

- Follow-Up Care: If you do see a new ENT specialist, ensure that you communicate your complete medical history, including previous treatments and evaluations. This information is vital for the doctor to make an informed decision regarding your care.

In conclusion, given the persistence of your symptoms and the complexity of your ear history, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. A thorough examination by a qualified ENT specialist can provide clarity on your condition and guide appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to advocate for your health and seek the care you need to address these troubling symptoms.

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