What could be the reason for swelling on one side of the neck and a popping sensation in the ear?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You have developed eustachian tube catarrh, which is secondary to nasal allergy or inflammation. The eustachian tube ventilates the nose and the ear. In a situation where it does not function, a negative pressure develops in the side of the ear leading to the feeling of vacuum, ringing or popping sounds, fluid in the ear, and sometimes decreased hearing. This can be treated by attempting to open the tube. I would suggest the following:

1. Using decongestant nasal drops containing Oxymetazoline or Xylometazoline three drops thrice daily for one week.

2. Tablet containing a combination of Phenylephrine and Levocetirizine, one tablet twice daily after food 12 hours apart for one week.

3. Doing Valsalva exercises.

4. Taking steam three to four times a day.

5. Refrain yourself from using earbuds.

6. Avoid having anything cold or spicy for the next two weeks.

7. Please take care to avoid dust exposure. All nasal allergies must be treated adequately, failing which the catarrh will recur.

8. You can use Duonase nasal spray (Fluticasone Propionate and Azelastine), two puffs in each nostril twice daily for six weeks.

It will take around two to four weeks for things to settle down. Once the nasal allergies have settled, the fluid in the ear (if present) will slowly reduce, and its associated symptoms (tinnitus, decreased hearing, etc.) will disappear. The ongoing inflammation in the neck would be an enlarged lymph node due to a mild viral infection and should resolve in a week.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.