Thanks Karryon and Zoe. I'm on steroids for 10 days to try to combat this thing already so they should hopefully get any inflammation under control. I'm guessing it's going to be a bit of a wait and see game again as I got much, much worse last time the steroids were tapered. I will definitely try some heat on it though to see whether it helps.
Poppy
Have you tried heat/holding a warm compress against your ear? It might help a bit. I get pain in my eyes/jaw and hands etc due to ms and don't find any over the counter drugs helpful either. Maybe it would be worth giving karryon55's suggestion a go? I really hope it eases soon for you,
Zoe
Just a thought but have you tried any anti inflammatories along with Paracetamol regularly. I know that Paracetamol takes time to build a therapeutic level in your body so you have to keep taking it.
I have taken Paracetamol for a year to help with my arthritis but it took time for me to notice a difference & now I feel it if I miss a dose or two. The anti inflammatories you can buy over the counter at the pharmacy but you can get more potent ones from your doctor.
I know this combination at least tamed my toothache & earache during a recent Chest & Sinus infection.
I'm sorry I don't have any other ideas.....hopefully somebody else may have something better. I hope it settles down for you soon. Karryon.