Valsalva manuver

@firespooks For most of my life, my ears have been problematic, with eustachian tube dysfunction on the list. The valsalva maneuver usually relieves pressure and allows the ear to "pop", but sometimes I get that "crackle" and no relief. When that happens, it usually means there is fluid in the ear, behind the eardrum.

Sometimes, I can get relief by massaging the area directly below the ear and behind the jawbone, or applying a heat pack. Other times, it requires an oral antihistamine to help "dry up" the fluid. For the past few years, on the advice of my pulmonologist and ENT, I have used a nasal antihistamine (azelastine, brand name Astepro) twice daily and the fluid rarely occurs.

Perhaps you can try the conservative measures, and ask your doc about antihistamines of those don't work?

PS When the fluid is so bad I cannot clear the ear, I always know I am headed for either and ear infection or a nasty bout of vertigo, so I do pay attention when it happens.

Thank you for your suggestions. I’m doing most of that but it’s nice to know there is someone else who is like me!

@sueinmn Have you had any success with a Neti pot ? If so how off would you use it ?

@firespooks I have rarely used the NeilMed sinus rinse bottle, usually when I have a cold. My ENT doesn't encourage messing with the "natural operation " of sinuses (have had surgery on them years ago. ) I do use azelastine and fluticasone sprays daily as prescribed to control allergies.