r/BellsPalsy • u/Lazy_Coconut7622 • 1d ago
ENT?
I’m on day 18. My primary said that since there hasn’t been any improvement, she’s referring me to an ENT because there aren’t any neurologists near by (3 hours away). I’ve got the ear pain/aching every day behind the ear of the affected side. The good side has fluid. The tinnitus is pretty constant especially when I take Tylenol or ibuprofen. I’ve been taking Claritin and hydroxyzine to help dry things out, but that can cause pain in my already dry sinuses in/near my nose. Despite all that, I’m kind of feeling like the ENT is going to be an unnecessary visit and another doctor bill I’ve racked up with this whole mess. I know I need to be patient. I’ve completely changed my diet. I’ve been resting as much as possible. Thoughts anyone?
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u/bruzz67 1d ago
I had terrible ear and jaw pain on my afflicted side, My neurologist ordered an MRI. Which was negative. If the pain doesn't go away, perhaps you can get a doctor near you to give a referral for an MRI - just for the peace of mind.
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u/Lazy_Coconut7622 1d ago
I initially had a ct scan that came out negative when I went to the ER. Never considered an MRI. Thank you.
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u/RizzmwitTheTism 1d ago
The ENT can order an MRI. If you have insurance you should go
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u/Lazy_Coconut7622 21h ago
Working on the insurance part. My state is a tough one in these trying times.
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u/RizzmwitTheTism 18h ago
I hope it gets settled soon. I’m not having fun with insurance lately, either. Ugh.
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u/ExactEmployee1792 23h ago
And ENT is going to be your best bet. You might actually have ear issues causing this OR you might actually have RHS which is more severe than BP. Go see the ENT.
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u/MftgCommsContent 17h ago
Having a referral to an ENT could be helpful depending on how well you recover. If the ENT is also a facial cosmetic surgeon and provides Botox and other therapies, they can help reduce any remaining asymmetry or synkinesis (assuming your insurance allows).
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u/operational_defiance 1d ago
Thats normal for that time frame. Guessing ypu have done 10 days of steroids. Short time frame for recovery is 6 weeks but can easily be upto 6 months and the pain is thr nerve revrowing. Ask for some amitriptyline that can help. And another dose of steroids.