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How to deal with blocked ears after cold?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had a cold and a catarrh last week. After that, I noticed my ears were blocked. I could not hear as well as before. What should I do?
Answered by Dr. Murari Kaimal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Murari Kaimal is an internationally acclaimed ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon known for his expertise in advanced endoscopic, rhinology, voice, and airway procedures. He combines surgical precision with innovation, including the use of cutting-edge technologies in modern healthcare. Recognized for his leadership, research contributions, and patient-centered care, Dr. Kaimal is committed to delivering world-class outcomes with compassion and excellence.

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Hi,

Glad to hear from you.

I am here to answer all your questions.

Sorry to hear that you have UTI and ear problems. Reassuringly, this does not seem to be anything too sinister and is usually quite common following a UTI, such as a cold and catarrh. Due to blockage or dysfunction of the eustachian tube which connects the nose and ears, and ventilates the ear. Nasal congestion can cause blockage of these tubes, bringing about these symptoms.

I would suggest the use of a nasal decongestant like Oxymetazoline for up to five days and Valsalva maneuvers (ear popping) to improve middle ear ventilation. This can take a few weeks to get back to normal. Please arrange a follow-up in a week's time if symptoms are persisting or developing any other ear symptoms or discharge.

I am thankful that you have confidence in me to help you.

Please stay safe and healthy. Thank you.

The Probable causes

Eustachian tube dysfunction

Differential diagnosis

Eustachian tube dysfunction

OME

Probable diagnosis

Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Treatment plan

-Nasal decongestant like Oxymetazoline for upto 5days. - Valsalva manoeuver (ear popping) to improve middle ear ventilation. This can take a few weeks to get back to normal.

Regarding follow up

Follow up if symptoms persist or worsen in a week for further investigation including hearing tests
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At November 17, 2023
Reviewed At November 17, 2023

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Murari Kaimal is an internationally acclaimed ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon known for his expertise in advanced endoscopic, rhinology, voice, and airway procedures. He combines surgical precision with innovation, including the use of cutting-edge technologies in modern healthcare. Recognized for his leadership, research contributions, and patient-centered care, Dr. Kaimal is committed to delivering world-class outcomes with compassion and excellence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Murari Kaimal
Dr. Murari Kaimal

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Murari Kaimal is an internationally acclaimed ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon known for his expertise in advanced endoscopic, rhinology, voice, and airway procedures. He combines surgical precision with innovation, including the use of cutting-edge technologies in modern healthcare. Recognized for his leadership, research contributions, and patient-centered care, Dr. Kaimal is committed to delivering world-class outcomes with compassion and excellence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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