Fluid behind the ears

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Q:  I have allergies and have recently been diagnosed with fluid behind the ears related to allergies.  Is there a way to prevent the fluid build up?

A:  No one looks forward to allergies and the symptoms that come with flare-ups.  Fluid build up from allergies can be prevented simply.

According to Dr. Geoff Harter with Jefferson Surgical Clinic in Roanoke it is easier to remedy in patients who do not have a history of high blood pressure or abnormal heart beat.

Dr Harter says, “It would be fine to use over the counter,  Claritin D or Zyrtec D antihistamine decongestants.”

He says the antihistamine helps prevent the swelling and the decongestant helps to open the ear up.

He also says Sudafed can work.  He recommends getting the type of Sudafed you have to sign for in your pharmacy over the version that is labeled “PE.”

Always take these medicines in the morning because they may make it hard to fall asleep at night when taken late in the day.

People who do have a history of high blood pressure or abnormal heart beat should stick with medicines that only have an antihistamine ingredient not a decongestant.

Dr. Harter says in addition to the medicine you can, “Hold your nose and blow to pop ears… that is a perfectly safe thing to do.”

One major sign of fluid behind the ears is significant hearing loss.

Link to more allergy information