Ear Conditions
Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common ailment, especially among children. They occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear.
Symptoms:
- Earache
- Fever
- Difficulty hearing
- Drainage from the ear
- Irritability, especially in infants and young children
Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. It’s often caused by water trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment for bacteria and fungi to grow.
Symptoms:
- Ear pain
- Itching
- Drainage
- Hearing loss
Meniere's Disease
Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and hearing. It’s characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and fluctuating hearing loss.
Cauliflower Ear
Cauliflower ear, a common injury among wrestlers and other contact sports athletes, occurs when the outer ear is repeatedly traumatized, leading to bleeding and swelling. If not treated promptly, the ear can become permanently deformed.