I am an extremely active 57 yr old woman who raced as a triathlete for over 25 years. I still run and bike daily along with yoga. I ceased swimming and surfing 3 years ago after several bouts with sinus infections that caused extreme problems, particularly my voice merely resonating in my head for weeks at a time. Since I ceased participation in a Masters swim team, I have not had any bouts with that severe head congestion that caused massive head stuffiness. (My ENT, after testing 5 years ago, stated my Eustachian tubes are hypertrophied due to exposure to cold water for decades.) Unfortunately, upon returning from a trip to the Midwest via plane last Tuesday a slight sore throat became worse and that massive head congestion returned, muffling off my ears once again. On Saturday, after symptoms increased along with huge swollen glands, I went to a local med clinic. The doc prescribed Clindamycin HCL after I tested positive for strep. I am taking Mucinex D, inhaling steam three tiimes a day, and using a saline rinse once a day. My ears are still muffled. The glands have only slightly decreased in size. My throat is still sore, but less so. On Saturday, the doc suggested I also contact my ENT today. The earliest appt I could obtain was June 6. My question is, how long before I might anticipate recovery taking this antibiotic? Years ago, my ENT prescribed a 5 day dosage of Prednisone to decrease inflamation after I endured 2 months with the symptoms. The doc at the clinic stated it was too early for Prednisone, that it would interfere with my body s normal response to fight infection. Help!!! This closed off feeling in my head is so frustrating. Plus, I need to take another plane trip in mid June. I need to get better, fast!!