Ear Specialists

If your child has frequent infections or fluid that remains behind the eardrum after the infection has resolved, they may require ear tubes. Even fluid behind the eardrum without infections can cause hearing loss and may require treatment with ear tubes. Ear tubes can play an important part in the treatment of ear infections and a child’s speech and development at a young age. Our ear, nose and throat doctors can determine whether ear tubes are appropriate in your child's treatment.

Swimmer's ear is an infection of the skin in the ear canal. It can be due to either bacteria or yeast/fungus, and it typically occurs because the ear canal remains wet after water exposure. Keeping water out of the ear by using ear plugs for swimming may help. If an infection occurs, it may require ear cleaning by a doctor and or prescription ear drops.

Tinnitus is the term for ringing or buzzing in the ears. Most people will have it occasionally or intermittently. It is often noted after exposure to loud or prolonged noise. Consuming caffeine, salt, chocolate and alcohol can make it worse. If it is constant, occurring in only one ear, associated with hearing loss, associated with dizziness or just bothersome, it should be checked by an ear, nose and throat doctor because it may indicate a more serious problem.

Painless fluid in the ears can occur with colds and allergies in both children and adults. With a cold, the fluid will often go away as the cold resolves. Over-the-counter decongestants may help. If the fluid has occurred with the onset of allergy season, treatment with antihistamines also may help. If the fluid persists or is associated with pain or a fever, then evaluation by a doctor is recommended as that may indicate an infection.

Some people have difficulty equalizing the pressure in their ears when flying. The situation will be worse if you fly with a cold or allergies. Take an oral decongestant before the flight and supplement it with a nasal decongestant spray prior to descent. You should pop your ears repeatedly by plugging your nose and blowing out with your mouth closed. This is especially important on descent. Chewing gum and frequent swallowing is also helpful. Ear plugs designed for flying are available over the counter and may help.

Some types of hearing loss can be corrected through medications or surgery. It is important to be evaluated by an ear, nose and throat doctor to diagnose your hearing loss, particularly if other symptoms like pain or drainage are present or the hearing loss only occurs in one ear. Sudden or rapidly progressive hearing loss or dizziness may indicate a different problem. An assessment by a specialized provider will help determine the type of hearing loss and the best approach for treatment. There are many types of hearing aids devices on the market. Our team works closely with the doctors of audiology at The Hearing Center BayCare Clinic to determine the best fit in terms of functionality and satisfaction for each patient.