Ear
Hearing loss affects one in ten North Americans. The unique domain of Otolaryngologists is the treatment of ear disorders. They are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear. Otolaryngology is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are commonly referred to as ENT physicians. They can also be known as Head and Neck Surgeons, ENT Allergists, Facial Plastic Surgeons, or Sinus Specialists.
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Surgical incision (myringotomy)
Otitis media typically clears up with proper medication and home treatment. In many cases, however, we may recommend further treatment. An operation called a myringotomy may be recommended, in which a small surgical incision is made in the eardrum to help fluids drain and to relieve pain. Read More >
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe one or more medications. Make sure to take all medications as directed and keep any scheduled follow-up visits. Although antibiotics may take away the earache rapidly, the infection still may need more time to go away, so be sure to complete the entire course of medication. Read More >
How is otitis media treated?
Otitis media can be treated in several ways, depending on the severity and frequency of the problem. Treatment options include:
Ear Pain
For children, pain in the ear can often be caused by one of the following:
The ears
Exposure to ETS increases both the number of ear infections a child will experience and the duration of the illness. Inhaled smoke irritates the Eustachian tube, which connects the back of the nose with the middle ear. This causes swelling and obstruction, which interferes with pressure equalization in the middle ear, leading to pain, fluid and infection.
Ear infections are the most common cause of children’s hearing loss. When they do not respond to medical treatment, the surgical insertion of tubes into the ears is often required.
