Tinnitus
Tinnitus is described as a constant or occasional unusual sound in the ears, often described as ringing. Although commonly a results of hearing loss, you should discuss your symptoms with your doctor as there are other possible causes of your tinnitus.
Surfers Ear / Exostoses
Surfer’s ear is not the same as swimmer’s ear, but many people confuse the two conditions. Surfer’s ear is the result of an abnormal bone growth in the ear canal. Typically, multiple bony lumps, called exostoses, are seen in the ear canal. Eventually surfer’s ear can cause partial or a complete blockage of the ear canal.
Meniere’s Disease
Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of dizziness in which you feel as if you're spinning, while at the same time you experience transient pressure in the ear, decreased hearing and tinnitus. This can become progressive, ultimately resulting in permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. In most cases, Meniere's disease affects only one ear.
Ear Infection
Causing pain for children and adults alike, middle ear infections can lead to many problems. Seeking medical attention for your ear infection is the best solution to make sure that you receive adequate treatment and prevent complications.
Swimmers Ear
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is a condition that causes pain in the outer ear and ear canal, often accompanied by discolored drainage from the ear. It is called swimmer’s ear because it tends to occur with prolonged exposure of the ear canal to water. Unlike a middle ear infection, otitis externa is typically treated with topical medicated ear drops, as well ear cleanings and keeping the ear free of water.
Cerumen Impaction (Ear Wax)
Ear wax is made by the body to protect the ears. It has both lubricating and antibacterial properties. Most of the time, ear wax is moved through the ear canal by motions from chewing, other jaw movements, and as the skin of the ear canal grows from the inside out. Ear wax is impacted when it has built up in the ear canal. It can cause a feeling of the ear being plugged or even cause muffled hearing. As they are designed to clean themselves, your ears might never need cleaning. Impaction of ear wax often happens when people use items like cotton swabs or bobby pins to try to clean their ears. This pushes the ear wax farther into the ears and can also cause injury to the ear. Here at Cass Street E.N.T. we are able to relieve impacted cerumen using specialized tools to minimize any discomfort.