Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
1663704 tn?1302912377

Fluid in the Middle Ear

I have had fluid behind my eardrum since September 2010.  My physician looked and saw fluid behind my eardrum and said it's caused from allergies or sinuses.  I do have allergies and postnasal drainage.  I was prescribed Flonase for 30 days, which didn't work, then prescribed a 7 day steroid medication, this didn't help either.  I have tried Allegra D, Mucinex D, Mucinex,  Sudafed, Sudafed PE, Afrin, etc.  I am currently trying Zyrtec.  Is there anything that I can take that's OTC in order to drain the fluid?  This is becoming very frustrating and miserable.  I would love to have the fluid drain and feel normal again.
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
1663704 tn?1302912377
No, the ear isn't infected.  I had my first sinus infection ever in June 2010, when I was 8 months pregnant with my first child.  He was born Aug 1 2010 and the fluid behind the eardrum started in the middle of Sept 2010.  I went to the Dr and the left ear was slightly red and infected so I was put on a Z Pak.  The infection cleared.  Then in Oct 2010, nothing got better so that's when I started going to the Dr.  I have used peroxide, rubbing alcohol, massage, etc.  But I was told that because the fluid is in the Eustachian tube, that neither of these things will help drain the fluid... it takes either steroids, antihistamines, and/or decongestants.  It's so irritating dealing with this for 7 months now.  I guess I may have to see an ENT, which I was hoping to avoid.  Thank you for your advice!
Helpful - 0
1664454 tn?1304234801
well is the ear infected or just fluid? if infected your are going to have to have antibiotics . if it is just behind your ear then you may try putting some rubbing achoal in the ear for a few min's i have heard it will draw out the fluid dont know how ture this is but it may be worth tryin.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My doctor had me chew gum.
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Ear, Nose & Throat Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Think a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss? Here are five warning signs to watch for.
Discover the common causes of and treatments for a sore throat.
Learn about what actually causes your temperature to spike.
Find out which foods you should watch out for.
Family medicine doctor Enoch Choi, MD helps differentiate between the common cold and more threatening (bacterial) infections
Dr. Steven Park reveals 5 reasons why breathing through your nose could change your life