ear infection

well i've had an ear infection for about a month now and have been on 2 rounds of antibiotics and they scheduled me an appointment with an ear doctor but its not till DEC 26 and today i noticed like small bumps filling my ear and whenever i hear a loud noise the pain becomes so intense in my ear that i cant take it. What is this I've never heard of an ear infection like this before

[OtoHNS_MD]

Without seeing you, it's impossible to tell exactly what's going on.
But, "bumps" in the cartilage portion of the ear, pain, and increased sensitivity to sound could potentially indicate a viral infection of the ear similar to shingles.  Antibiotics would not treat this.  If it's getting worse, or you notice hearing loss, you could try calling your MD to try to get you into the Otolaryngologist sooner.  Or you may need to go to the ER.

[Nancy T]

There is something called Ramsey Hunt syndrome which perhaps is what OtoHNS-MD was referring to?

I totally agree with his/her advice to push to be seen sooner if it's getting worse, and especially if you notice hearing loss. All ear doctors reserve time for otologic emergencies, or are supposed to. If you suddenly lose your hearing, that's considered an emergency and should be seen the same day--going to the ER if you can't possibly get seen otherwise by an ear SPECIALIST.

Good luck,

Nancy T.

[Enoch Choi, MD]

Shingles of the inner ear would be pretty serious.  I'd go to the ER if it's getting worse.