Left untreated, ear disorders can threaten not only your ability to hear but also can cause serious disruptions in your sense of balance that can lead to other health problems. Infections and other ear problems can manifest themselves in a variety of different ways, all of which should be taken seriously. If you experience such signs or symptoms, consult a medical professional promptly to determine the precise nature of the problem and begin treatment without delay.
Otitis Externa and Otitis Media
Otitis externa, also known as external otitis or swimmer’s ear, and otitis media are common inflammations of the outer and middle ear, respectively. Ear pain, known medically as otalgia, and a discharge from the ears, also known as otorrhea, often signal the presence of one of these forms of ear inflammation. However, these symptoms, singly or together, could be triggered by yet another ear or other disorder, so it’s important to see your doctor to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
Meniere's Disease
A disorder of the inner ear that can seriously disturb the sense of balance, Meniere’s disease usually targets a single ear and is diagnosed most often in people who are in their 40s and 50s, according to MayoClinic.com. Common symptoms of this disorder include recurrent episodes of vertigo, which may trigger nausea and/or vomiting; hearing loss in the affected ear; sensation of fullness in the ear; and a ringing, whistling or hissing in the ear, also known as tinnitus. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical treatment because this disorder can lead to a total loss of hearing in the affected ear.
Otosclerosis
In otosclerosis, abnormal bone growth in the middle ear interferes with the normal functioning of structures within the ear and can lead eventually to hearing loss. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders says that gradual hearing loss is the most noticeable–and earliest symptom–of this ear problem. An early sign might be an inability to hear whispers or other low-pitched sounds. Other possible symptoms of otosclerosis include equilibrium problems, dizziness or tinnitus. See your doctor if you suspect you may be suffering from otosclerosis.
Mastoiditis
Mastoiditis, an infection of the mastoid bone in the skull, often develops as a consequence of an untreated or inadequately treated case of acute otitis media, according to an article in the New York Times Health Guide, an online resource. Far less common than it once was, the disorder most often targets children and can cause death if not treated promptly. Symptoms include otalgia, otorrhea, headache, fever, hearing loss, redness of the ear or area behind the ear and swelling behind the ear.
Ruptured Eardrum
The eardrum, or tympanic membrane, serves two important functions. It facilitates hearing and protects the delicate structures within the ear from contact with foreign substances. Head trauma, loud noises, otitis media and foreign objects in the ear can cause a perforation of the eardrum. Symptoms may include vertigo and associated nausea, tinnitus, sudden onset of ear pain that quickly subsides, hearing loss and a discharge from the ear that can be clear, bloody or pus-filled. If you suspect that you have suffered a perforation of the eardrum, see your doctor immediately.
References
- “Targeting Therapies in Otitis Media and Otitis Externa”; Charles D. Bluestone, Margaretha Casselbrant and Joseph E. Dohar; 2003
- MayoClinic.com: Meniere’s Disease
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Otosclerosis
- The New York Times: Health Guide: Mastoiditis
- MayoClinic.com: Ruptured Eardrum
