Chronic Ear Pain for years

[kmdiver19]

I have had this problem off and on for years now, very painful for several days at a time until the pressure finally stops and a slight amount of fluid will drain.  It occurs in either or both ears. Prior to the relief of pressure it will cause a debilitating head ache.  After internet research finally tried using Nasonex and that seems to be the only thing that helps, usually it helps, and usually it helps the most if I use it soon enough with the start of symptoms.  

New development in last 3 weeks. After several airplane trips and ears not clearing after the 3rd trip, and a lot of fullness in the ear, (symptoms not as usual...not nearly as painful, but full and uncomfortable.)  After couple days of fullness went to doctor and said I had a bad ear infection, and have been treated with amoxicillan for past 10 days.  Now, I'm back to the more "normal" symptoms, along with some jaw soreness and soreness to pressure/touch inside the ear canal (outer canal only...not going into the ear canal)  I am thinking that I only need to give it a few more days for everything to clear up, but am looking for any other advice or things I should be watching for? Thank you.  Also, if the nasonex has been working, should I expect flonase to be as effective (it is quite a bit less expensive in generic.)

[Eric P Wilkinson, MD]

This sounds like it could be Eustachian Tube Dysfunction, but you should see an ENT specialist for a full diagnosis.

Hope this helps.  Good luck!

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical
advice - the information presented is for patients education only.
Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your
individual case.

[Eric P Wilkinson, MD]

These symptoms sound like a combination of TMJ syndrome and Eustachian tube dysfunction.  However, with a history of smoking you must have a full ENT evaluation with flexible scope exam of your larynx to rule out referred pain from an upper aerodigestive tract tumor.

Hope this helps.  Good luck!

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical
advice - the information presented is for patients education only.
Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your
individual case.

[PKD]

I have had similar symptoms for last two years. Am a 29 years male and used to smoke till 6 months ago (2-3 mild cigarettes a day; for 6 years).
The persistent ear ache has never been too intense; but I always feel some kind of pressure in the left ear. Sometimes, I also feel tightness in my left upper jaw. Apparently; the pain sometimes radiates to my eyebrows.
I can clearly feel the difference in pressure during flights. Also, recently I have been biting my own cheek. No other problems as such. When I shut my mouth and nose; and try to blow air out; my left air seems to be stuffed ; but does not seem to be clearing itself.
Also, one of my upper left wisdom teeth seems to be disoriented.

Please advise.