Ear Ache

[2sp_]

I've had a head cold for a few weeks now and it's moved into my ear. I just feel bunged up and loud or sharp noises have the same impact as I imagine a screwdriver through my ear canal would have...

I've had the ear ache for about 5 days or so now, any tips for how to alleviate it (medical or old wives) would be appreciated!

[Dizmo]

I'd go with the ear drops from the GP. Or wait for someone to suggest ibruprofen - medication that seems to be used for everything.

[anneasquith]

in the absence of Dr. B, i have found applying heat to the ear helps.

[2sp_]

Thanks Dizmo. I'd rather avoid the GP if possible. Take me about a month to get an appointment...

Can't take ibruprofen (stomach problems), so that's out.

;-)

[2sp_]

Thanks Anne. I have been using those wee hand warmer things you get. Pressed to the side of my head using a Christmas headband... Festive and functionable...

I'm struggling to hear properly, in fact my friend phoned me yesterday to tell me her mother had died suddenly and I couldn't make her out. Feel awful as she had to yell it down the phone for me.

I've been holding my nose and "popping" my ear to relieve the pressure.

[anneasquith]

i suppose it maybe infected, any discharge ? NB, i am not a DR. :)

[2sp_]

No, no discharge. I really do think it's just congestion from the cold.

I think I'm just feeling sorry for myself to be honest...

[anneasquith]

awe........... it's not a pleasant feeling is it.? why not visit the chemist, the pharmacist may well suggest something ? ( maybe a decongestant )

[2sp_]

I'll try the chemist, thank you Anne.

[sherrardk]

Some of my children suffer from glue ear and I was told to use Vicks rub (to help keep all the tubes open), even putting it on your back and (bizarrely) the soles of your feet and not to use a warm compress.

[2sp_]

I'll give the Vicks a go sher, thanks!

[Fusion5]

2sp, I have exactly the same problem. It's always my left ear. I think the euthsian tube ( I know I have spelt it wrong) gets blocked which causes the pain.

I have started with steam with a drop of Olbas added to the water and towel over head and inhale. I have also read that chewing gum can stretch this tube which then releases the build up of fluid. I also feel a bit if balance with it.

Hope this has helped you.

[Sqad]

Nip to the chemist and get a nasal decongestant spray e.g Sinex OR a steroid nasal spray e.g Flixonase......bot equally as good.

Keep popping the ear by nipping your nose.

Why can't you take Ibuprofen? Who said?

Try Paracetamol then.

[2sp_]

Thank you fusion and sqad. Doc said I can't take ibruprofen as I have an ulcer...

I'll try all those suggestions. :-)