I am 42 and have chronic outer ear infections, as well as inner ear infections. They usually begin with the outer infecvtion then develop to inner infection. .This has been going on for 3 years. .The longest period of relief from infection was 8 months. What could be an underlying symptom that should be investigated?
Reply: -------------------------
I am not sure if I understand your question. A symptom is a morbid phenomenon that is experienced by an individual that varies from normal functioning and everyday experience and is therefore usually a manifestation of a disease process. Any symptom that is bothersome and persistent therefore may warrant investigation. If your question has to do with whether an underlying occult disease process could cause recurring ear infection, the answer is yes, possibly. It depends on the exact nature of the infections and how often you are experiencing the infections (monthly? a couple times a year?) A more thorough history and an examination of your ears, nose, and throat would be necessary to develop an opinion regarding this possibility.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
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