Eustachian tube drainage...

[bush_is_wacko]

I know you aren't doctors but does anyone know of a safe and effective way to promote drainage of eustachian tubes without spending a fortune on chiropractic or homeopathic remedies?

I have tried heat, Glycerin drops, antihistamines (which only made it worse), reflexology,and neti pot sinus drainage.

I am sick of stuffed eustachian tubes and I know antibiotics really don't help.

[phantom power]

1. I *think* I've had some success with antihistamines.

Something like 24-hour claritin, which is now available over the counter. I started taking claritin for other reasons, but noticed that my e-tubes started to seem a lot better.

Totally anecdotal, but it's an easy experiment to try.

Oops, I see they didn't work for you.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. Here's a couple of things I do

DO NOT use these techniques if you are having ANY pain in the ear area. I have problems with excessive ear wax which somehow effects my inner ear, making me dizzy. I've used ear candles with great success to rid my ears of excessive wax. If wax isn't your problem, obviously don't go this route. Cost is about $1.30 per candle.

The other thing I have found that helps me is using a nasal spray that is made with xylitol. It keeps germs, etc, from adhering to the nasal passages and so helps keep you from getting infections via breathing in stuff. The product is drug free and can be used in conjunction with medication. Cost is about $12 per bottle, which lasts me several months.

[Warpy]

3. Time

If it's air pressure changes, hold your nose, shut your mouth, and blow gently.

If there is actual liquid drainage, you need to see a doctor NOW. Try to find an ear, nose and throat guy who isn't booked up or go to the ER and let them call one in. Insist on it.

[uppityperson]

4. NOT antihistamines, use decongestants

Sudafed (tm) pseudoephidrine or some such works much better than antihistamines. Antihistamines can actually exacerbate the problem. Scubadivers use pseudoephidrine, though these days you probably will have to sign for it since it is what is used for meth. And don't let your cats sleep by your head on your bed.

[bush_is_wacko]

7. I've tried Sudafed, guafenisin (sp?) and Claritin.

They only seem to dry me out completely for a day or two and then the crud gets even more clogged. I know I should probably see a specialists but,honestly, the last time this happened when I was a kid it took months for it to clear up (it's been months already) and I honestly don't think it was their prescriptions but just time.

I am allergic to cats and don't have them but still love them. Unfortunately, they also love me and I can never seem to avoid them. They follow me around the neighborhood! I swear I don't bathe in tuna fish or anything they just sense a kindred soul or something. It's freaky and I've had more than my fair share of people comment on it.

This is all so frustrating. I know I'm not going to die over this but it is very uncomfortable.

[Quakerfriend]

5. I swear by Hyland's Earache Tablets !!

This is a combined homeopathic rx. The cost is ~ $6-8 for 40 tabs.

www.hylands.com or 1-800-624-9659

I have used this with great success for many years. I find it only takes one dosage for COMPLETE relief most times.

I would definitely rec'd you try this!

[bush_is_wacko]

6. Thanks for the suggestions everybody. nt

[wakemeupwhenitsover]

8. I'm going to lock this.

I'm sorry, but DUers really aren't qualified to give medical advice. The moderators wish you would consult with a qualified doctor as soon as possible. Perhaps an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist could help you.

best,
wakemeupwhenitsover
DU Moderator