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Suggest Treatment For Cough And Cold

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Posted on Wed, 12 Oct 2016
Question: Hi Doctor, I'm having cough and cold from a couple of days and now it has reduced to some extent (I started taking a cough syrup). Now I also feel that my ears are blocked and this is very uncomfortable. Can you please suggest? Thanks in advance.
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Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (8 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD).

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. Steam inhalation, anti allergic medication, medicated gargles (such as Betadine) and OTC nasal decongestant drops ( 0.1 % Xylometazoline ) will help reduce the ear blockage and discomfort. These drops should only be used for a few days.

2. Get your ear drums examined to rule out ear wax / signs of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and get a PTA (Pure Tone Audiogram) and an Impedance Audiogram (I/A or Tympanogram) done.

3. If these tests are normal / nearly normal, the Eustachian Tubes will open with medication.

4. If these tests are abnormal, a procedure known as Myringotomy (with or without a ventilation tube / grommet) can be done. This can also be done if the problem persists after a few weeks of medication.

5. Upload the test results hare for further treatment options.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sumit Bhatti

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 2685 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Cough And Cold

Brief Answer: Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD). Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for your query. 1. Steam inhalation, anti allergic medication, medicated gargles (such as Betadine) and OTC nasal decongestant drops ( 0.1 % Xylometazoline ) will help reduce the ear blockage and discomfort. These drops should only be used for a few days. 2. Get your ear drums examined to rule out ear wax / signs of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and get a PTA (Pure Tone Audiogram) and an Impedance Audiogram (I/A or Tympanogram) done. 3. If these tests are normal / nearly normal, the Eustachian Tubes will open with medication. 4. If these tests are abnormal, a procedure known as Myringotomy (with or without a ventilation tube / grommet) can be done. This can also be done if the problem persists after a few weeks of medication. 5. Upload the test results hare for further treatment options. I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them. Regards.