Ear problem after losing voice

[metalvocalist29]

(08/29) I've been sick w/ a sore throat, chest cold, head cold, etc for half a week now and I have currently recovered. I am in a metal band and I just performed a show that ended at 12am estrn time. I knew I shouldn't have sang (screamed), but I've done it before (which I should have never done again), but it was an important show. I've been performing professional metal vocals for 7 years now; I am very conditioned and well-trained, but have I never lost my voice like this. As a note, my throat isn't sore at all and there is no pain.

However, my voice is recovering, I feel it. The real issue is my left ear. As I was driving back to the practice spot to drop off equipment, suddenly my ear felt like it was filling up with fluid or like I just went to the pool and water got stuck in my ear. Again, there is no pain in my ear. Unfortunately, I am afraid I will feel pain tomorrow if this persists. The music was actualyl more quite than usual. My ear has been this way since the drive up and now it's 4am and I cannot sleep! I don't think its tinnitus because I don't hear a ringing, but I'm sure it's possible its symptoms can be more dynamic than just ringing. I just hear the pressure building. I'm afraid it's going to burst or something. I can't lay my head down or I'll hear my heart beat within my ear and it feels like the pressure intensifies.

I am desperate for an answer since I've been searching all night for an answer. I'd like to know if anyone knows this is a common occurance and the ear pressure will go away on its own, or if I will need to see a specialist. As I'm sure it might be unrealistic for a quick response, but I would be very grateful for a quick response tonight... Thank you.

[LivingInHope]

Glad you'll go to the clinic if it persists.  You might try laying your affected ear on a warm damp wash cloth for a few minutes.  The theory is, by osmosis the concentrated fluid in your ear would go to the wash cloth where the fluid is less concentrated.

[metalvocalist29]

Anyways, my ear is better now. Still a little muffed but not as much as when it first started. I laid in bed all day w/ no sound and no talking. Finally can lay my head down w/ out the pressure intensifying. I guess if this persists I'll go to the clinic, but I think it'll be gone soon.