- Cholesteatoma
- Interviews
Nancy's interview
How did all start?
Mild left ear pain, then clear fluid one night and reduced hearing, like I had a cotton ball or an earplug in my ear
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
The first doc found a polyp, told me to do a CT scan and referred me to a specialist. The second doctor found a nasty infection, polyp and told me it was 80% a cholesteatoma. I went to see a third doctor, who confirmed the infection, removed the polyp and told me the same, that the CT is unclear and we'll have to open up and see what kind of damage is done.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
None
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Support from other people who have been through this
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Fear of surgery, fear of complications, surgeon not doing a good job.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
No
What things have you stopped doing?
Swimming, diving :(
Having a proper bath
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I had a plane trip planned, cancelled it
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Get your ears checked. If you have a mild pain now and then, or catch a cold often, it might be something more serious. This thing has no symptoms to alert you unless damage is done.
