How to Know if Your Baby Has an Ear Infection
It’s extremely common for babies and young children to experience middle ear infections, known medically as otitis media. In fact, according to one 2019 review, “Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common diagnosis in childhood acute sick visits. By three years of age, 50% to 85% of children will have at least one episode…
How To Manage Chronic Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common ailment, especially in children. While usually nothing to worry about, those that suffer from chronic ear infections may experience frequent pain, a reduced quality of life and may be at risk of more serious health complications, like hearing loss. Ear Infection Symptoms Ear infections occur when bacteria or a virus…
What Is Barotrauma and How Does it Affect Our Ears?
If you’ve ever experienced pain or pressure in your ears when flying or scuba diving, you’re familiar with barotrauma. It occurs when there is a change in the pressure of our surroundings and symptoms can range from mild and annoying to debilitating. Let’s examine how barotrauma affects our ears as well as what can be…
How Are Eustachian Tube Disorders Treated?
According to a review published in the National Library of Medicine, “The Eustachian tube is a narrow tube which links the back of the nose to the middle ear. It is normally closed but opens when we swallow, yawn or chew. The Eustachian tube has three main functions: to protect the middle ear from pathogens;…
Earwax 101
Earwax, known medically as cerumen, is a flaky or waxy substance produced by the ears. It is made up of oil, sweat and dead skin cells, and its job is to moisturize the ear canals and trap dirt and other debris. Though some find earwax unsightly, it is the sign of a healthy ear. We…
Four Common Causes of Ear Pain
Many different conditions can cause ear pain. Some are directly related to the ear, and other types of pain can be caused by issues in the body near the ear. Let’s look at a few of the most common causes, as well as when to see a doctor. Middle Ear Infections Middle ear infections, also…