Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. Get your ear checked and cleaned to examine the ear drum. What you have described is consistent with Barotrauma due to Audiogram) to document any hearing loss.

3. Get a Tympanogram (Impedance Audiogram) done to check middle ear pressures and Eustachian Tube function if the ear drum is intact. If there is a perforation, Tympanometry is difficult as no air seal is possible in the external ear canal. Does the Valsalva maneuver (closing the nose, mouth while blowing out the cheeks) cause bubbling sounds or pain in the ear? Normal middle ear secretions leak out of the perforation in the eardrum and into the ear canal. it is good to hear that the discharge has reduced or stopped.

4. Persistent pain implies an infection or inflammation. Also, if there is a mucoid or mucopurulent ear discharge, a trial of medication should be taken for three to four weeks. This would include an anti-allergic and steam inhalation. Decongestants are best avoided in your case as have hypertension. Ear drops such as Ciplox (ciprofloxacin) may be prescribed. All this should be under medical supervision.

5. Ideally the ear drum should heal in a few weeks time. You will need regular follow up with a local otologist (ENT Specialist).

I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

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Hi,

Thank you for writing back.

1. Ear drops such as Ciplox (ciprofloxacin) will be available easily in the US. Ideally , you should let your doctor decide. If the ear is dry, there may not be any need for rear drops.

2. The principles of the management described above will not change and are irrespective of your location.

I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

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