can a sinus infection cause hearing loss?

[lisa_perkins]

My husband refuses to let me take him to be seen, but seems to have lost a lot of his hearing. He has to turn the volume up on everything to the point I can't stand to sit in the room, and also can't hear unless you are right next to him. For background purpose: He is 28, and in good health normally. Our three children all tested positive for the H1N1 Influenza A virus the past month, he was sick with a fever for 2 days and bedridden with what he says is a major sinus infection and bronchitis. His nose is no longer stuffy, but he cannot hear hardly at all. Tonight he is achy and fell asleep really early again. YES I know the best solution is to take him to the doctor but he simply WILL NOT go. So out of desperation I am asking if anyone has any ideas here?

[ENTMD]

Severe upper respiratory infections can involve the middle ears via inflammation of the Eustachian tubes.  This can result in fluid collecting in the middle ears (serous otitis media) and, in some cases, significant hearing loss.  In these cases, the condition is temporary and the hearing will return once the fluid/inflammation resolves.

This is a likely scenario in your husband's case, but it's only an educated guess.

Good luck!

[lisa_perkins]

Thank you, are there any OTC ear drops that may help?

[ENTMD]

Unfortunately, there is no medicine that has been shown to resolve Eustachian tube inflammation.  These typically will resolve on their own.