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ENT DOCTOR BLOG
Posts for: June, 2016
The pain associated with an earache can be persistent and distracting. Relief from the discomfort is likely high on your priority list, but it's important to know the cause of an earache before it can be treated. Your Washington DC ear, nose and throat physician, Dr. William Bond, can diagnose and treat a variety of ear problems. Here, he lists a few of the most common causes of earache.
Ear infection
Otitis externa or "swimmer's ear" - an infection of the outer ear canal - is a common reason why people visit their ENT. Caused by repeated exposure to water, an external ear infection can bring with it pain, itching and a discharge from the ear. Otitis media, or middle ear infections, are most commonly seen in children under 2 and accompany or follow up a cold. Their symptoms include fever, pain and sometimes mild and temporary hearing loss.
Your Washington DC ENT, Dr. Bond, can diagnose what type of ear infection you have through a physical examination. Many ear infections resolve on their own, but analgesics may be used to manage the pain. In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed.
Earwax buildup
Earwax, also called cerumen, is actually one of the body's defenses against infection and other problems. It acts as protection for the inner ear from dust and dirt, as well as lubrication for the sensitive skin in the ear canal. However, an excess of earwax can cause it to harden and block the ear's opening. Your Washington DC ENT often sees this happens when a patient uses cotton swabs or other foreign objects in an attempt to clean the ear, but instead push the wax further inside. Wearing hearing aids or earbuds regularly can also cause this problem. In addition to discomfort, you may also experience temporary hearing loss and tinnitus.
Over-the-counter eardrops may be effective at softening the wax and allowing the body to naturally flush it out of the ear. However, a visit your ENT could be necessary if the eardrops fail to bring relief. Dr. Bond may need to irrigate or suction the ear in order to fully remove the wax buildup.
There are other causes for earaches as well, including jaw misalignment, foreign objects or dental issues. Regardless of the cause, it's important to be seen by a professional as soon as possible to treat your earache. Contact the otolaryngology practice of Dr. Bond in Washington DC for any questions or concerns you may have.
