Question 1

I'm having this issue with one side of my nose being blocked all the time, and it switches sides during the day. At night it gets hard to breathe, even through the side that's open. My ears feel blocked too, and my head is constantly heavy, but I'm not dealing with a cold. This has been going on for about four months, and I've already seen my family doctor and tried cetrizine and paracetamol, but nothing's helping. Who should I see about this? Also, is it okay if I use Otrivin daily for my nose problem?

Accepted Answer

Your persistent, alternating nasal congestion, ear blockage, and head heaviness, without cold symptoms, may indicate a possible underlying condition, such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or allergies; consider consulting an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)

Question 2

I've had two Tympanoplasty surgeries, one in 2011 that didn't work out and then another in 2014 after having sinus surgery and surgery for a deviated nasal septum. The doctor said back then that I shouldnt swim for the rest of my life because of the ear infections. Its been a few years now and I'm wondering if its still risky to swim or if things might have changed with my ear health?

Accepted Answer

It is important to follow the advice of your doctor after Tympanoplasty, especially if there have been complications such as infections in the past. Swimming can introduce water into the ear canal, which may increase the risk of infection or damage to the eardrum. To protect your ear health, it is advisable to avoid swimming or to use ear protection such as earplugs while swimming.

Question 3

I'm dealing with tonsil stones for the past year and I've noticed some small stones in my tonsils. I've managed to remove a few, but can't get rid of the ones on the outer part. Sometimes it feels like something's stuck in my throat, but I don't have any ear pain, fever, swelling, or sore throat. The only issue is a dry throat. What should I do next? How can I relieve this problem without surgery? I've been gargling with Betadine daily. Could this be chronic tonsillitis? Any advice would be really helpful.

Accepted Answer

Consult an ENT specialist to rule out underlying conditions like allergies, sinusitis, or non-allergic rhinitis. Consider:

1. Allergy testing
2. Nasal endoscopy
3. Imaging tests (CTMRI scans)

Continue medications as prescribed, and explore additional measures like humidifiers, saline nasal sprays, and avoiding irritants.

I'm really concerned because I just saw an ENT doctor and she told me I have something called Melanoplakia Buccal Mucosa. What does it mean and how is it treated? Could you please give me some advice on what steps to take next?

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