The following are the symptoms that I have experienced for approx. 8
years:
Loss of hearing, especially in the right ear.
Constant plugged feeling, right ear.
Movement of jaw results in a cracking, popping feeling, right ear.
At times, when I breathe, something in my right ear feels and sounds
like it
is moving in and out with each breath.
Tinnitus, especially in the right ear.
Complete loss of sense of smell.
I have these symptoms constantly.
About 8 years ago I developed chronic excema, which now has subsided
considerably.
I have been tested for allergies but the source could not be
determined. A doctor
told me I have an eustachian tube dysfunction but did not suggest any
treatment for it.
He did a cat scan.
My question is, can eustachian tube dysfunctions be treated? I am from
western North Dakota; where would the closest treatment clinics or
physicians be?
Thank you
Reply: ----------------------------
I am not sure that there would be any connection between the disturbance in your sense of smell and the ear symptoms you experience. The alteration in sense of smell may indicate a sinus or nasal disorder. It is possible that your ear symptoms are due to eustachian tube dysfunction - possibly a patulous eustachian tube. However, a physical examination and audiometric testing would be required to diagnose the problem. I would suggest consultation with an otolaryngologist - unfortunately I would not be able to help you with the location of the nearest ENT specialist - I am only familiar with a large multispecialty clinic in Fargo which is on the other side of the state.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
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