fungus in ear treatment - #14515
I am really freaking out right now because I’ve had this annoying itch in my ear for like two weeks. At first, I thought it was just some water or wax buildup, but then I noticed this weird smell coming from it. I went to the doc, and they told me I might have a fungus in my ear. What? It was super surprising! They didn’t give me much info, just told me to use some drops, but like, what’s the best fungus in ear treatment? I mean, I’ve tried these over-the-counter things, but they only kinda helped for a day. Do I need some kinda prescription meds instead? My ear is driving me crazy, and I’m wondering if this stuff could get worse if I don’t deal with it properly. Ugh! Does anyone know how long it takes to get rid of fungus in ear with treatment, or if any specific fungus in ear treatment works better than others? I really don't want to deal with this for months! I’m kinda scared, honestly. Should I see an ENT, or can my regular doc handle this? I'm just afraid of it becoming something way worse, ya know? Any advice would be super appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
When it comes to treating a fungal infection in your ear, commonly known as otomycosis, it’s important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. This typically involves using antifungal ear drops, which aim to directly target the fungus causing the infection. Over-the-counter treatments might provide only temporary relief because they aren’t specifically formulated to combat fungi. If your symptoms persist after using these drops as instructed or if you don’t notice improvement within a week or two, it may be necessary to see a doctor again. They can assess whether you need a prescription antifungal medication or if there’s another issue contributing to your symptoms. In some cases, seeing an ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat specialist) is beneficial, especially if the infection is severe or your regular treatment isn’t effective. They have the specialized tools and expertise to clean your ear canal and ensure the infection is being properly managed. It’s essential to address this condition promptly, as untreated fungal infections can potentially lead to further complications, such as hearing loss or the infection spreading. Keep the affected ear dry and avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. Using ear plugs while showering and avoiding scratching or poking in the ear are important preventive measures. Treatment duration varies, often ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity and your response to treatment. But following medical guidance carefully can help reduce symptoms effectively.
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