Ear (Otology) Treatment
The ear is a complex organ that serves the important function of allowing us to hear all that is around us. The ear is divided into three main sections: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear consists of the ear canal and the ear lobe. The ear canal is exposed to various environmental factors such as infections, sunlight, and trauma, which can lead to permanent damage. The middle ear is home to the ossicles, three small bones (the malleus, incus, and stapes) that transmit vibrations from the ear drum to the inner ear. The inner ear consists of the cochlea, a fluid-filled structure that converts sound waves into electrical signals that are sent to the brain, and the vestibular system, which helps to maintain equilibrium. Various conditions can affect the structures of the ear, leading to hearing loss and vertigo. While many conditions progress slowly and can be managed with medical treatment, some conditions can lead to sudden hearing loss or severe vertigo and may require surgery.
Some of the issues affecting the ear which we treat include:
- Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear)
- Otitis media (infection of the middle ear sometimes presenting with fluid in the middle ear)
- Cholesteatoma
- Conditions affecting the middle ear bones
- Perforations of the Ear Drum (Tympanic Membrane)
- Dysfunction of the Eustachian Tube
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness or Vertigo
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a medical condition characterized by persistent ringing in one or both ears. It can only be heard by the affected individual and has also been described as whistling, hissing, buzzing, or pulsing in the ear. The sounds may come and go, but for most sufferers, the symptoms produce a constant, maddening drone. The effects range from slight annoyance to severe disruption of everyday life. The American Tinnitus Association estimates that more than 50 million Americans suffer from tinnitus.
Tinnitus is most commonly a symptom of a different underlying health condition or because of damage to the auditory system. The majority of people who have tinnitus experience a treatable amount of hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss or damage, other potential causes include earwax buildup, ear bone changes, exposure to loud noise, stress, fatigue, and cardiovascular problems. While there is no cure for tinnitus, there are treatments available that can help lessen the symptoms and make it more manageable. If you think you might be suffering from tinnitus, it's important to see a Dr. Gupta and properly diagnose and treat the underlying cause.
