ear drops for fungal infection - #16155
I am really worried about this annoying issue I've been having. A couple of weeks ago, I started feeling this itchiness in my ear, and I thought maybe it was just some water stuck in there or something. But then it got worse, and there was this weird discharge, which definitely freaked me out. So, I went to my doctor, and they said it might be a fungal infection. They suggested using ear drops for fungal infection, but I'm not sure how effective those really are. I mean, how long does it usually take for ear drops for fungal infection to actually work? And should I be using them multiple times a day? I've heard some horror stories about people having to deal with these infections for ages! Plus, what if I don't see any improvement? Should I go back to my doctor or try something else? I can't believe I’m dealing with this! Anyone had good experiences with ear drops for fungal infection? I feel like I need to know if this is gonna help or if I'm just wasting my time. Thank you!
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Doctors’ responses
Ear drops prescribed for fungal infections, often containing antifungal agents like clotrimazole or miconazole, can be effective if used properly. It’s typically recommended you use them daily, sometimes multiple times a day, depending on your doctor’s instructions. These drops usually start to show improvement within a week to two weeks, although it’s important to complete the entire course as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. It can be tempting to stop treatment if symptoms appear to improve quickly, but stopping early might allow the infection to linger or return. If after seven days you notice no improvement or if symptoms worsen, it’s critical to follow up with your doctor. They might need to reassess your condition, as there could be other underlying factors causing symptoms, or they might need to change your treatment. Sometimes additional interventions, like cleaning out any debris from the ear, can be needed along with medication. Avoid using any unprescribed treatments or remedies which might not be appropriate for your condition and potentially lead to further complications. Also, try to keep the affected ear dry and avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal, as these can exacerbate the problem or introduce bacteria. It’s also worth mentioning that the persistence of fungal infections can sometimes relate to underlying conditions such as moisture entrapment due to swimming or excessive sweating, or even an immune system issue, so managing those factors can help reduce recurrences. Remember, if there’s any severe pain, fever, or persistent dizziness, don’t wait for improvement but seek medical attention, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
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