Ear Pain and Dried Blood: Potential Causes & When to Seek Immediate Care

Question
Hi there,
For the past few days I have been having a lot of ear pain and pressure, and this morning I woke up to some dried blood in the opening of my ear. I am also experiencing a lot of dizziness and balance problems.  I am not seeing my family doctor until Wednesday, but what could this possibly be? and should I see someone sooner?

Answer
It sounds like you had some sinus problems and some eustachian tube problems... the tube that equalizes pressure between the inner ear space and the back of the throat.  The pressure builds up, and pus accumulates if there is an infection and the eardrum can rupture.... that is what happened with you and some pus/blood leaked out.  The ear also has the balance organs and this can be messed up temporarily also.  You need to keep drops out of the ears... no drops.  You can use some afrin nose spray if you have nasal or sinus congestion.  There isn't a need to get to the doctor sooner unless you are blowing green bloody drainage out of the nose or have a lot of sinus pain/pressure.  Then antibiotics should be started along with the Afrin.  I hope this helps