Question
A patient described a situation where, after being struck in the ear in March, there was a slight purple discoloration on the back of the ear and a feeling of ear congestion. The patient tried pinching their nose to blow, but was unsuccessful, and mentioned feeling the eardrum pressing against something during elevator descent. The patient asked the doctor how to handle the situation and sought appropriate treatment methods.
Answer
Based on the patient’s description, an initial diagnosis suggests eustachian tube dysfunction leading to secretory otitis media and low pressure in the middle ear. It is recommended to use nasal decongestants or oral anti-inflammatory medications. If blowing through the nose is unsuccessful, hospital treatment for eustachian tube balloon dilation can be considered. If these methods are ineffective, tympanostomy tube placement surgery may be necessary.