Allergies/sinus problems, ear pain. Taken Augmentin and antibiotic. Ear pain persists. Consult ENT?
Patient: Hi. I have a family history of allergies/sinus problems as well as a tendency - the past few years - to clench my teeth while sleeping. This makes me a TMJ candidate. As a consequence, when I developed an on again, off again ear pain in early June, I did not rush to the ENT. I did not seek any medicine. Last week however, I saw the dentist about a tooth on the same side as the ear pain (my lymph node was also briefly swollen under that ear ), he advised me to see an ENT to cover all bases. I was then given Augmentin for any that infection may have not been visible on the dental x-ray near the tooth (it has a crown). My ear does not feel particularly bad since I started the antibiotic. The lymph node swelling went down a few days ago after that visit and as of now my external auditory meatus feels just a bit crusty but is not particularly painful. Is it imperative that I see an ENT to determine for certain whether I have been suffering from an off again on again ear infection since June or should I wait to see how I feel after I finish the antiobiotics? Doctor: Hello dear,First of all, the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor is correct.Please take them as advised.However, if the symptoms still persist, it will be better to consult an ENT specialist for further evaluation & management.Investigations like complete blood count, X ray of para-nasal sinuses will be helpful in clinching the diagnosis.Treatment usually involves:1. Analgesics like paracetamol2. Antibiotics depending upon culture & sensitivity reports to remove the causative organism.3. Antihistamine preparations can also be used to provide symptomatic relief.Meanwhile...avoid taking cold food & drinks, maintain adequate hydration & take soft, non-spicy foods.Wish you good health & a speedy recovery.Thanks & take care.