Scared of what it might be

[hopewardrobe]

Hi I have had reoccurring ear pain in one ear for about a year. It has gradually got worse and I now have hearing loss in that ear. The pain is not just in my ear but includes the side of my neck, face and when really bad the back of my head and behind my eye.

I saw my GP in May who checked for ear infection and referred me to audiology who confirmed hearing loss on that side.

I was then referred to ENT. I am still waiting for appointment. My worry is that things seem to be escalating. I am taking more and more strong painkillers, I have experienced a few weird moments of confusion. The feeling of fullness in my ear feels worse and my hearing loss has increased.

I'm concerned it could be an acoustic neuroma that is just growing in there. Has anyone had similar? If so what was it? Do I go back to GP and explain symptoms are worse? Any advice would be gratefully received.

Not an expert but husband had ear pain which kept worsening over 3 months - went repeatedly to NHS doctors who said nothing they could do, he then when to his doctors in France (he's French) as suffering hearing loss by then and then gave him a course of antibiotics and he's ears improved but some permanently hearing loss.

I would go back to GP and explain your concerns and push for more urgent referral.

Thanks for reply and sharing your husband's experience. I have gone back once and was told to wait for ent appointment. That was 2 months ago. I will phone GP tomorrow. Thanks again