I have an ear infection in both ears and have been taking Clavulin and mometasone for 5 days. My ears are clogged and I'm going on a trip soon. What should I do?

Good evening ma'am,

In such a situation, you should use products from the decongestant class, such as Otrivin™ or Dristan™. Indeed, even if you treat your otitis, there may still be fluid in your ear (behind the eardrum), as illustrated in this video (around 1:40): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7xf8ORyaPo

In such a case, you should therefore employ the product and wait about 30 to 45 minutes before doing the modified Valsalva maneuver. This consists of pinching the nose with the fingers, closing the mouth and blowing (as if to unclog the ears) WHILE you are waiting. It can be challenging, but it opens the canal that connects the throat and ear (the Eustachian tube) and creates negative pressure that will allow fluid to flow from the ear to the throat.

Repeat as needed 2 to 3 times a day, until it unclogs!"

Happy travels,

Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist