Single most likely diagnosis
- Cerumen impaction: This is the most likely diagnosis as ear drops are often used to soften earwax, and if the earwax is not properly removed, it can cause hearing loss.
Other Likely diagnoses
- Otitis externa: This is an infection of the outer ear canal, which can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops.
- Otitis media: This is an infection of the middle ear, which can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: This can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops to help alleviate symptoms.
Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Perforated eardrum: This is a serious condition that can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops, but if not properly diagnosed, can lead to further complications.
- Meningitis: This is a rare but serious condition that can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops, but if not properly diagnosed, can be deadly.
- Acoustic neuroma: This is a rare tumor that can cause hearing loss and may be treated with ear drops, but if not properly diagnosed, can lead to further complications.
Rare diagnoses
- Otosclerosis: This is a rare condition that affects the middle ear and can cause hearing loss.
- Cholesteatoma: This is a rare condition that affects the middle ear and can cause hearing loss.
- Labyrinthitis: This is a rare condition that affects the inner ear and can cause hearing loss.