HomeAnswersOtolaryngology (E.N.T)impaired hearingI had an upper respiratory tract infection, and now I have trouble hearing. Please help.

Is it normal to have trouble hearing after an upper respiratory tract infection?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 19, 2022
Reviewed AtSeptember 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had an upper respiratory tract infection three weeks ago, and my left ear became muffled and unpopped. I am having trouble hearing but do not have pain. My doctor said it was an ear infection that would go away. I tried nasal decongestants and warm clothes to relieve pressure, but nothing helped. I want to try Ciprodex eardrops to see if it will help. Should I be worried because I do not want this to be a permanent conductive hearing loss?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. You are suffering from serous otitis media, a fluid collection behind the ear drum. It usually occurs after an upper respiratory tract infection which causes the blockage of the eustachian tube opening in the nose. The condition tends to remain if not treated adequately. The treatment involves decongestants, nasal sprays, and anti-inflammatory medicines. You will have to take these medicines for about two to three weeks. A confirmatory test for the condition is tympanometry which measures the middle ear pressure. I suggest you get the test done, which will act as a baseline now. Do write back to us for any more support.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shyam Kalyan. N
Dr. Shyam Kalyan. N

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy