Blocked Ear

[rockyracoon]

I've had a bad cold for 2 and half weeks now. I'm coming to the end of it, but my ear feels really congested 9for the past 8 day) I've used the stuff from the chemist to soften ear wax but it's not touched it. Not even sure that it is wax. It's causing quite a bit of deafness and is very uncomfortable. The pain has been waking me at night but seems to be not as bad during the day.

How do you know the difference between wax and an infection? Or, could it be something else. I'm loath to phone the doctors as it's such a performance.

[Canary42]

Many pharmacists offering ear irrigation will be quite prepared to look at it for you.

[rockyracoon]

Thanks Canary. Do they check to make sure that it's not an infection before irrigating?

[237SJ]

I don't think it's wax. It sounds like congestion in the eustachon tube.

[rockyracoon]

I think so too. How do I get rid of it? or do I have to ride it out?

[237SJ]

If someone looked in your ear they would probably find that the ear drum is inflamed. If it hurts it might be a middle ear infection (otitis media)

[Canary42]

Yes, they should examine it first if that's what you ask for - I'm basing this on a local pharmacy, they could be an exception.

[Patsy33]

If its congestion in Eustachon tube, try holding a wet, very hot clean flannel, as hot as yiu can stand, then holding against the ear to let the steam go in. Hold it there for several miutes. My doctor use to tell me to do that, having same problem. Also, hold your nose and blow till you hear a pop inside ear. I was told tis too. Just hope you haven't got an infection. Best wishes.

[rockyracoon]

Thanks, all.

I keep having to turn the TV up as I can't hear properly. Though it comes in handy when I want to ignore the mister ;0)

[Sqad]

Do what Patsy 33 @17 58 says plus use a nasal decongestant spray e.g Boots nasal decongestant spray or Otrovine Nasal spray.

It is as 237SJ says, blocked Eustachian tubes.

Not an infection in the middle ear as that is extremely painful.

[rockyracoon]

Thank you Sqad. Would a face sauna do the same thing?

[Sqad]

LOL....no idea what a "face sauna " is, but with the right person, the results should be gratifying......;-)

[rockyracoon]

Steady on, young man.

I meant a bowl of hot water (with olbas oil) with a towel over my head.

[Sqad]

LOL That will do nicely......as well as the nasal drops.

[rockyracoon]

Thank you :)