The plugged ear, revisited

Q: I’ve some kind of blockage in my left ear.  It is not painful and I feel little or no pressure there.  The problem is, I can’t get a scheduled doctor’s appointment for another 3 months.  I already have partial hearing loss.  I believe it will return to normal once my ear canal is cleared out.  I’ve been using the OTC drops for softening the wax.  It doesn’t help, much.  I’m worried about the time frame I have to look at.  Is it probable that I might have complete hearing loss by the time my Dr. can squeeze me in?   I’ve looked at every option people have given me, and I’ve tried what doesn’t scare the ***** out of me.

As an afterthought.  What on earth could make my ears itch so much?  (it’s like all the time)

That “plugged ear” sensation

Q: I have been attending the ENT hospital on a regular basis for 4 years. I was discharged in October as the problem was resolved. My ears once again became blocked and I was unable to get an ENT appointment until July. I have tried Hopi ear candles that did clear the ear slightly and it made all my sinuses appear to be clearer. My hearing however is now impaired. Should I not try anything else now until my appointment? I do not have an infection. Also, a couple of years ago my eardrum was perforated.

Bogus

Ear candling. Ugh.

The “wax” found at the center of the candle post-burning is not of human origin.

Some people . . .

D.

treatment options for eustachian tube dysfunction

Q: I have been diagnosed with ETD, especially on the left side. It is a condition that I’ve had ever since I can remember (about 25 years now). Symptoms are a feeling of full ears, diminished hearing and occasional pain. When I have been examined, there is no outwardly visible sign that there is pressure in my ear(s), though a CT scan does show considerable sinus problems. My ENT suggested that we try either a FESS or placement of tubes in the eardrum. I have concerns about both procedures.

As I understand the condition, regardless of the etiology, ETD is the result of not being able to equalize pressure between the ambient air and the middle ear. My question is simple: is it possible either to enlarge the ET or make a hole into the middle ear without penetrating the eardrum itself?

ear candling exposed!

Q: Is there medical evidence to disprove that ear candling does or does not work. Is the wax that they remove wax from the candle or is it wax from the ear. Is it a fake? If it is the consumers should be warned of this method. Please reply as soon as possible. Thank you.