For the last 2 months I have been suffering from nasal congestion and severe vertigo with fullness, ringing, itching, hearing loss and pain in my left ear. I am also 28 weeks pregnant. The only treatment I have received is antibotic treatment. I've been to an ENT and he can not detect any abnormalities with my left ear. Do you have any suggestions?
Reply: --------------------
I would suggest continued consultation with the ENT physician regarding the severe vertigo - additional audiometric testing may be required although it is possible that the vertigo may be related to a blood pressure, hormonal or metabolic problem related to pregnancy. Furthermore the vertigo may or may not have anything to do with your other symptoms.
Persistent bothersome nasal congestion possibly causing associated ear congestion can occur in women in their last trimester of pregnancy and is known as "rhinitis of pregnancy". It is hormonally related and is associated with prolonged swelling of the lining inside the nose. It is not an infection and antibiotics offer no benefit. Often head of bed elevation (30 degrees) at night and frequent use of nasal saline spray can help. A trial of Breathe-Right external nasal strips may also be helpful. For more bothersome symptoms, particularly when breathing through the nose is nearly totally obstructed, I will recommend the use of prescription topical nasal steroid sprays such as Rhinocort, Flonase, Vancenase, etc. provided the OB-Gyn physician is in agreement. The use of such sprays is considered relatively safe to mother and fetus provided it is used in the last trimester.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
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