Hearing and ear health are often taken for granted. There are many different ear conditions that can cause pain or hearing loss. It is important to seek medical evaluation when there is pain or hearing loss to in order to prevent long-term complications. Common ear problems are usually mild, requiring only minimal treatment. If conditions persist or worsen, however, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Excessive Earwax
Cerumen, or earwax is produced by a gland outside of the ear. The cerumen is produced in order to trap dust or other particles, therefore protecting the ear drum. Sometimes, there is a buildup of too much earwax. This can lead to hearing difficulties or discomfort within the ear. Using cotton swabs or other means to try to remove earwax can cause an injury or push the ear wax further inside the ear. It is important to seek medical evaluation and treatment for excessive earwax. It can easily be removed by a doctor through different methods such as irrigation, which produces immediate relief.
Ear Infection
Ear infections are common, especially in children. An infection of the middle ear is called otitis media. While most ear infections will clear on their own in a few days, some infections worsen. Unchecked, this can sometimes lead to infections of the bone behind the ear, a ruptured ear drum or even hearing loss, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery. Symptoms may include trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fever or pain. Children may not be able to express that they are having a problem and appear cranky or cry a lot. If home treatment of an ear infection does not provide adequate symptom relief or if the ear infection lingers for more than few days, it is important to seek treatment from a physician. This can prevent further complications to the ear.
Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer's ear is a common ear infection, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Swimmer's ear is a condition in which water gets trapped in the outer ear canal resulting in a build up of bacteria. It is common in swimmers, but can occur after a shower or a bath. This condition results in pain, drainage and sometimes swelling or hearing loss. There are ways that swimmers can protect their ears from this condition, such as special ear plugs. Swimmer's ear can be treated with special medications such as antibiotics.
