LOS ANGELES E-N-T

[360GUY]

Out of nowhere (might be Covid-related), I developed, what appears to be chronic sinus congestion. Condition has been present for about 5 months. I do a nasal-rinse everyday, which has enabled me to BREATHE all day, with little discomfort, however, I can still feel the congestion. (btw - I've tried several OTC and prescription allergy meds, nasal sprays, etc., and, no help whatsoever)

Went diving yesterday, for the first time, since this issue began, and was unable to descend past 10ft. Equalizing had always been easy for me, however, this time, equalizing was IMPOSSIBLE. Absolutely no room to create air pockets, due to the congestion. Swallowing did not help at all. At 10ft the pain started, and that was the end of the dive.

Is my diving career over? I was thinking if I could visit an ENT, who specializes in DIVING, I might have a better chance of finding a solution or two. I live in Los Angeles and Puerto Vallarta. Might anyone know of doctor who might be able to help? Thanks so much.

 

[Duke Dive Medicine]

DM sent.

 

[vrubinstein]

DM sent.

Hello I found this board and wanted to see If I can ask for a referral if you know anyone in southern california area



On 12/23 I flew with a sore throat and stuffy nose. Did not really pay attention upon arrival because it was 12am and I was exhausted but next day noticed fullness and muffelled/ low hearing in left hear.



I have a history of TMJ and Tinnitius in both ears. Anyways I went to Urgent Care on thursday the 25th as I realized something was wrong. Urgent Care doctor prescribed me Sudafed Sinus and also flonase. Immeditally with 1 spray of Sudafed Sinus my Eustachian Tube started to open up and within a few hours the fullness in the left ear was gone (so the pressure had adjusted). Problem is I do think their is hearing loss/some damage there are some other signs like clicking when swallowing but its been a few days and I can tell the hearing is off also the tinnitius is loulder in the ear then was previsouly. I am in Los Angeles Southern California and seeking a refererral to an ENT doctor who specalises Barotrauma issues.


Thank you happy new year

 

[vrubinstein]

Thank you, I think I did try Valsalva after googling random things to do (I Shoulda just bought sudafed nasal spray), But i dont think I really forced it hard.

Thank you, So you think the ongoing hearing / bit muffeled still ( I would say im like 70-75% of the right ear) should resolve in time. I did find some blood in my snot when I cleaned out my nose the next few days not alot but there is usually no blood so still concering. I am just a bit worried about the hearing recovering, nobody ever says anything about not flying sick I wish I knew before this ordeal. I will reach out to the numbers you provided thank you.

 

[Duke Dive Medicine]

Thank you, I think I did try Valsalva after googling random things to do (I Shoulda just bought sudafed nasal spray), But i dont think I really forced it hard.

Thank you, So you think the ongoing hearing / bit muffeled still ( I would say im like 70-75% of the right ear) should resolve in time. I did find some blood in my snot when I cleaned out my nose the next few days not alot but there is usually no blood so still concering. I am just a bit worried about the hearing recovering, nobody ever says anything about not flying sick I wish I knew before this ordeal. I will reach out to the numbers you provided thank you.

No problem. I deleted the post in the forum because I meant to send it via DM... I don't post numbers for individual providers in public. I replied to your DM.

Re hearing loss... 70-75% is pretty profound but the only way to tell for sure is to get an audiogram, which an ENT can do for you. I'd defer to the opinion of someone who has examined you in person.

Best regards,
DDM