Deaf in one ear.

[vogie]

Three days ago I suddenly lost nearly all hearing to my left ear, wasn't exposed to any noises etc, just went. Is this a common occurance and is there anything I can take before seeking medical advice. I have tried cotton buds in the ear but to no avail, tried holding my nose whilst trying to blow, again no difference.

[moogradod]

There may be various causes - ranging from very simple things to more serious events.

 

Did you take a shower just before you noticed the deafness ? It might be that the ear is just congested and the moisture let this congesture grow to finally seal it. Happened to me two times.

 

In any case I would see a doctor immediately. Even the removal of the congesture requires specialized machinery using water flushing. Never try to use any Q-Tip on your own. And I would not delay the trip to the hospital. Go immediately.

[richard_smith237]

See an ENT specialist at your hospital. 

 

Is just a water build up?

i.e. just water not draining from your ear via the Eustachian tube which can be restricted due to any minor infection, cough or common cold. Or wax blocking it etc...  Either way an ENT (Ear Nose Throat) specialist will give you far more info. 

Using a Cotton Bud / Q-Tip may push more gunk into the ear.

[Sheryl]

As others have said, see an ENT at once.

 

Multiple possible causes, some minor and some serious.

[faraday]

Try putting a little olive oil into your ear tonight, if it's wax, it will soften it, & maybe unblock it.

 

However, do as Sheryl says & see an ENT Doc.

[tiocfaidh]

An old saying in the United Kingdom is "don't put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear"

[lee b]

I had this problem a few years ago. I went to see an ENT doctor, who took a look inside, told me what it was, paid 500 THB for him to clean, took medicine and ear drops as stated.

 

Went back a week after to check , fully cleared and i could hear a pin drop a mile away. Great and cheap service. Obviously prices will change depending on where you are, but get it seen to as it could get worse.

[vogie]

Is the hospital the only place that syringes ears or will some chemists be able to do it?

[doctormann]

2 minutes ago, vogie said:

Is the hospital the only place that syringes ears or will some chemists be able to do it?

Most local clinics will clean out your ears.

Stay away from 'candling' though - doesn't work and can be harmful.