I've been to see my doctor and was told that I had fluid in my ears due to allergies, I am dizzy. nauseaous and also feel spacey. My head pounds and I feel like I'm loosing my mind! After reading your web page everything but the feeling disoriented was mentioned. I was given midrin for my headache pain, am I to understand bedrest and fluids are the only option for this to go away? I also take claratin for allergies. Do you think taking the nose spray flonase will speed up the healing process? Is there anything I can do to prevent this from comming back in the future?
Reply: --------------------------
Middle ear fluid, regardless of the cause (allergy, infection, etc.) can cause imbalance, dysequilibrium, disorientation, or vertigo. In most cases when middle ear fluid is initially diagnosed, a trial of antibiotics is warranted even though such fluid may not be related to bacterial infection (the only way to absolutely prove that bacterial infection is not a factor is to obtain a sample of fluid from the ear by surgical drainage). Additional medications that might also be recommended include decongestants and topical nasal steroid sprays (such as the Flonase which you mentioned). While antihistamines (such as Claritin) might be helpful in preventing middle ear fluid in allergic individuals, it is doubtful that it would provide much benefit in getting rid of middle ear fluid once it has developed. Autoinflation of the ears is also helpful - plugging one's nose and gently blowing without letting the air escape to "pop" the ears. When fluid fails to resolve after 6-8 weeks in adults, I then often will offer the option of tympanostomy and tube insertion. When vertigo accompanies middle ear fluid problems, inner ear sedative medication such as meclizine (Antivert) may be helpful.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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