hearing loss with Zithromax (Azithromycin)

Deb Larsen · 07-22-2001, 06:35 AM

I'm an adult. Three days ago, my doctor put me on Zithromax for a sinus infection. On day two, my ears "clogged-up" and I developed a pretty bad earache. I called my doctor who prescribed eardrops for the pain. Now on day three I have loud ringing in my ears and they remain clogged.

Has anyone had these side effects? Have they gone away?

mlgable · 07-25-2001, 11:23 AM

I doubt that the symtoms you describe are side effects of the medication. They are all symptoms of a nasty sinus infection. They should clear up once the sinus infection starts to clear up. You may want to take some sudafed for the congestion if the doctor didn't prescribe a decongestant along with the antibiotic. If the sudafed doesn't take care of it go ahead and check with the doctor to see if they won't prescribe a stronger decongestant such as one of the new sprays that are out like Rhinocort spray. Hopefully you are more aware of the symptoms of a sinus infection and will seek treatment before it gets this bad next time. Good Luck and I do sympathize with you as I am a chronic sinus infection sufferer as well as a nurse.

Deb Larsen · 07-25-2001, 11:44 AM

mlgable,

Thanks so much for responding. I saw my GP on Thursday for the sinus infection and he said my ears looked fine. I went to see a respected ear specialist yesterday (Tuesday). My sinuses are fine, but both eardrums have scabs and blisters within the tissue and my right drum is punctured and red. The specialist said my symptoms are indicative of a bad Mycoplasma infection and she's put me on Clarithromycin, 500mg/day for 2 weeks. She thinks that Zithromax was not the culprit, but may have initiated the spread to my ears. My symptoms have gotten worse (I've taken 750mg of Biaxin so far), but things usually get worse before they get better. I hope for the best. What do you think?

Deb

mlgable · 07-25-2001, 11:40 PM

Sounds like you are on the way to good treatment. It always pays to see another doc or have the first doc take another look if things don't seem quite right. Glad the specialist found your problem. Sinus infections are often diagnosed based on symptoms as well what you describe when the doc presses on your sinuses but if you ever question whether you really have a sinus infection or not ask the doc to do a set of sinus x-rays.