Ear Disorders

Ear Conditions

Your ear is a complex organ that enables you to connect with your surroundings. If a problem arises with any part of the ear, you may become disconnected. Fortunately, our staff is experienced at treating any disorder or condition that walks in the door.

Acoustic Neuromas

An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor of the cranial nerve that connects the inner ear and the brain. Though noncancerous and typically slow growing, it can affect both hearing and balance, and may cause hearing loss, tinnitus and dizziness. In rare cases, tumors may become large enough to press against the brain, interfering with vital processes and even leading to death.

Ear Infections

Ear infections can occur in the outer or middle ear. An ear infection occurs in the middle ear when fluid becomes trapped following a viral or bacterial infection. This painful affliction is most common in children, but can affect people of all ages. Infections can also occur in the outer ear. They are most common when the skin in the outer ear is dry and cracked. Ear infections can be either acute (of short duration) or chronic (persisting or reoccurring frequently).

Hearing Loss

If you have sudden, severe hearing loss, you will notice right away that your ability to hear has decreased significantly or disappeared totally in the affected ear. For example, you may snap your fingers next to the affected ear and not hear it, or you may put the telephone receiver against your ear and hear nothing.

Some diseases and conditions that cause hearing loss may produce additional symptoms, including:

  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Discharge or bleeding from the ear
  • Deep earache, or pain in the ear canal
  • Pressure or a “stuffy” feeling inside the ears
  • Dizziness or problems with balance or equilibrium
  • Nausea