What is Glue Ear?

Glue ear is one of the most common childhood illnesses, affecting children under the age of five the most, though it can sometimes persist into adolescence. Some adults may also be affected by glue ear.

For ears to work properly, the middle ear needs to be kept full of air. The eustachian tube, which usually does this, runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat. In children, this tube is not as vertical and wide as it will be when they get older, which means it doesn’t function as well.

When the eustachian tube becomes blocked, air cannot enter the middle ear. The cells lining the middle ear begin to produce fluid. This fluid can start as a runny liquid, thickening as it fills the middle ear. With fluid blocking the middle ear, it becomes harder for sound to pass through to the inner ear, making quieter sounds difficult to hear. It’s like listening to the world with both fingers stuck in your ears!

Glue ear is often, but not always, linked with ear infections, and it can sometimes develop unnoticed. A prolonged period of reduced hearing can affect a child’s speech development. Children with glue ear may also fall behind at school and become disruptive if they don’t receive extra support. Changes in behavior, tiredness, frustration, lack of concentration, preferring to play alone, and not responding when called may indicate glue ear symptoms.

What Conditions Influence Glue Ear?

Many factors can contribute to glue ear. These include colds, flu, allergies, and passive smoking. Children with conditions like cleft lip and palate, or genetic disorders such as Down's Syndrome, may be more likely to develop glue ear, as they tend to have smaller eustachian tubes.

What Treatment is Available?

Glue ear generally improves on its own, though this can take some time. If glue ear isn’t causing major problems, a period of watchful waiting for about three months is often advised. However, if glue ear is causing poor hearing, speech delays, or recurrent infections, more intervention may be necessary, such as the insertion of grommets (small tubes) into the ear to help drain fluid.

Getting a child to blow up a special balloon through their nose, called autoinflation, can help clear fluid from the ear and improve hearing within a few weeks. However, children must practice this regularly, and younger children may find it difficult to use. Doctors may also try nose drops or nasal sprays to help, though the evidence for their effectiveness is limited. Antibiotics and antihistamines generally do not help with glue ear.

A hearing aid can sometimes be used to address the hearing and speech problems caused by glue ear, especially for those who are not suitable for surgery due to the risks associated with anesthesia.

Making Hearing Easier for Your Child

While glue ear can cause hearing difficulties, there are simple communication tips that can help your child. Always get their attention before speaking, face them directly, and maintain eye contact. Minimize background noise, speak clearly without shouting, and keep your normal rhythm of speech.

In school, teachers and nurses may notice that your child is struggling but may not immediately realize that hearing issues are to blame. Be sure to inform the teacher about your child’s hearing challenges so that appropriate accommodations can be made, such as ensuring they sit near the teacher and are encouraged to ask for things to be repeated.

In summary, glue ear can affect both children and adults, and while it often resolves on its own, there are treatments available for persistent or more severe cases. Understanding glue ear symptoms and treatment options can help ensure that both children and adults receive the support they need

Vertigo treatment

Patients frequently complain of dizziness, which can have many possible causes unrelated to the balance organ in the inner ear. Fainting attacks, heart problems, thyroid issues, and brain disorders can all lead to feelings of “light-headedness,” “giddiness,” and general imbalance. However, Vertigo Dizziness is a specific form of dizziness, often linked to problems with the inner ear. Vertigo refers to the sensation that either the environment is moving in relation to the patient or the patient is moving in relation to the environment. It is typically a spinning or rotatory sensation. Vertigo Dizziness is most commonly associated with inner ear disorders. In fact, ninety-nine percent of people who suffer from vertigo due to inner ear problems will recover with time, without any treatment. The ability to maintain balance is dependent on three systems—the eyes, joints, and the inner ear—which all provide crucial information to the brain.

Various factors can affect the inner ear and cause vertigo. One way to distinguish different types of vertigo is by the duration of the dizziness. Short-lived episodes of dizziness, lasting only a few seconds to minutes, are commonly caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which typically comes on suddenly. It is often triggered by suddenly looking upwards or sideways, or when turning over in bed. BPPV can sometimes start after a whiplash injury or other head trauma, though there is often no obvious cause. Medium-length episodes of dizziness, lasting from a half-hour to several hours, are rarer and may be linked to Menière’s disease or endolymphatic hydrops.

These conditions cause severe vertigo accompanied by hearing loss and tinnitus, with symptoms lasting up to several hours. While hearing generally recovers once the vertigo resolves, it may deteriorate gradually over time. Longer episodes of dizziness, lasting days to weeks, are typically caused by infections like labyrinthitis (inner ear infection) or vestibular neuronitis (inflammation of the balance nerve). These conditions result in severe, rotatory dizziness that can last up to two or three weeks, with a slow return to normal balance, often accompanied by vomiting. Additionally, Sinus Infection Vertigo can cause dizziness due to pressure changes in the ear or head during a sinus infection, leading to a sensation of imbalance or vertigo-like symptoms.

To diagnose the cause of dizziness, specialist investigations are often required. These may include hearing tests, balance assessments, blood tests (though rarely), and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. These tests help identify the specific cause of Vertigo Dizziness and guide appropriate Treatment for Vertigo. In general, Treatment for Vertigo is symptomatic, aiming to control the symptoms without necessarily addressing the underlying cause. Treatment approaches may include rehabilitation exercises designed to speed up the brain’s natural compensation after inner ear disease.

These exercises can help hasten recovery and improve balance. In cases where medical treatment is ineffective, vestibular sedatives may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of Vertigo Dizziness. If conservative measures fail, surgical options may be considered, ranging from the insertion of an ear tube to more invasive procedures that involve destroying the inner ear or dividing the nerves leading from the inner ear to the brain. Recent advancements in Treatment for Vertigo also include the use of drugs delivered directly into the ear through the ear drum, which can selectively target the inner ear’s balance mechanisms without affecting hearing. However, this treatment carries a risk of potential hearing damage.

In conclusion, while Vertigo Dizziness can be caused by various factors, particularly those related to the inner ear, the appropriate treatment—whether rehabilitation, medication, or surgery—can help manage symptoms and speed up recovery.

3 - Advanced Ear Infection Care in Camarillo | Pacific View ENT

The three most common Types of Ear Infections are otitis externa, otitis media, and otitis interna. Otitis externa, also known as an outer ear infection or swimmer’s ear, typically occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal, leading to bacterial or fungal growth. Otitis media, an infection of the middle ear, is often caused by bacteria or viruses, commonly following a cold or respiratory infection. Finally, otitis interna, also known as an inner ear infection or labyrinthitis, affects the deeper parts of the ear, often leading to more serious symptoms like vertigo, hearing loss, and imbalance.

Common symptoms of Ear Infections across all types include pain, discharge, itching, deafness, imbalance, and sometimes a ringing in the ears. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection and the individual's overall health. Treatment for ear infections is generally aimed at alleviating symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Ear Infection Treatment may involve antibiotics or antifungal medications for bacterial or fungal infections, respectively.

In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers and ear drops may be sufficient. However, when ear infections become chronic or more severe, Ear Infection Surgery may be required. Surgical intervention is typically necessary when there are complications like persistent fluid buildup, a ruptured eardrum, or damage to the inner structures of the ear. In such cases, surgery helps to drain fluid, repair damage, or prevent further complications. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection, and it's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and care.

4- Causes of Tinnitus and Treatment Options | Pacific View ENT

Understanding Tinnitus Struggling with tinnitus? Learn about the causes and discover the best medical treatment for tinnitus at Pacific View ENT Clinic. Expert care in Camarillo.

Tinnitus is a condition where patients perceive noises in their ears or heads, often masked by environmental sounds. When these noises become noticeable in daily life, they can be quite irritating, leading to the clinical term “tinnitus.” The sounds can vary widely in pitch, ranging from low to high frequencies, and may be intermittent or permanent. It's important to note that hearing words, songs, or voices does not fall under the definition of tinnitus. The intensity of these sounds can change with various stimuli, such as exercise, coffee, or alcohol. Even children can experience tinnitus, which can cause significant worry for those who first notice it, sometimes leading them to fear more serious conditions like a brain tumor. It's estimated that 30% to 40% of the population will experience tinnitus at some point, particularly if they have hearing loss. Understanding the causes of tinnitus is crucial for identifying the right medical treatment for tinnitus, as many will benefit from counseling or devices. The best treatment for tinnitus often involves a combination of approaches to effectively manage symptoms.

Further Investigations

When tinnitus affects only one ear, it requires further investigation by an ENT surgeon. This typically includes hearing tests, blood tests, and imaging scans. However, not everyone with bilateral tinnitus will need extensive testing, as often no definitive cause is identified. In rare cases, serious conditions, such as a tumor of the auditory nerve, may be discovered.

Medical Treatment for Tinnitus

The medical treatment for tinnitus generally falls into two main categories: counseling and mechanical devices. Counseling can help patients manage their symptoms, while devices like hearing aids or white noise generators can provide relief. Although various alternative methods are often suggested in literature, many are largely discredited. Drug treatments tend to be ineffective, and while some sedatives have been used, they are not recommended for long-term use and do not address the underlying issue.

Best Treatment for Tinnitus

Most patients find that they can control their tinnitus without significant medical intervention. Through a thorough consultation and appropriate investigations, we can help exclude treatable causes and recommend the best treatment for tinnitus tailored to each individual's needs. Understanding the causes of tinnitus is crucial for effective management, allowing patients to regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

5- Advanced Hearing Loss Solutions in Camarillo | Pacific View ENT

Hearing loss can affect people of any age. One in six adults has some degree of hearing loss, which increases to three in four people over the age of 75. Children can also be affected, usually due to fluid or infection in the middle ear, but also due to congenital problems or viral illness during early childhood. Recognizing hearing loss symptoms early is important for timely hearing loss treatment.

The Mechanism of Hearing

We hear sounds through the ear canal and eardrum, where vibrations are transmitted through the ossicles (small bones in the ear) to the inner ear, or cochlea. Here, sound waves are converted into electrical signals, which are passed on to the brain along the auditory nerve.

Types of Deafness

The causes of deafness can be broadly grouped into conductive hearing loss (due to problems in the ear canal and middle ear) and sensorineural hearing loss (which involves issues with the inner ear or the auditory nerve).

Conductive hearing loss can occur due to issues like wax blocking the ear canal, infection, fluid buildup, trauma, or fixation of the ossicles in the middle ear. Fortunately, these conditions can usually be treated with appropriate hearing loss treatment.

Sensorineural hearing loss, on the other hand, is caused by problems in the inner ear or auditory nerve. Common causes include age-related hearing loss (presbycusis), viral infections, trauma, certain medications, noise exposure, and congenital issues. While some inner ear problems are reversible, most sensorineural hearing loss is permanent. In rare cases, it may be caused by a growth or tumor in the brain.

As technology advances, hearing aids continue to improve, helping to amplify sounds heard by the inner ear, which can partially overcome hearing loss symptoms improve quality of life for those affected.

6- Expert Ear Removal Surgery Recovery in Camarillo | Pacific View ENT

The Problem
Prominent ears lack a normal fold of cartilage, sometimes affecting one ear more than the other. Children with prominent ears are often teased at school. In severe cases, ear removal surgery may be considered, although ear pinning is more common.

What Can Be Done?
Surgery can correct deformities, set ears back closer to the head, and create a natural look, boosting confidence. Ear surgery recovery is generally quick, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort.

Limitations
The surgery is usually done after age 5, when the cartilage is strong enough. While the goal is improvement, perfect symmetry is not guaranteed. Complications of ear surgery are rare, but may include infection or scarring.

Surgical Procedure
For children, the surgery is under general anesthesia; for adults or older children, local anesthesia with sedation may be used. The skin is incised behind the ear, and the cartilage is sculpted and stitched. A turban-like bandage is used to aid healing. A faint scar may remain.

After the Operation
Children typically recover within a few hours, though they may stay overnight until the anesthetic wears off. Pain can be managed with simple painkillers. The bandages are removed after 10 days, with a lighter headband worn for 6 weeks. Ear surgery recovery usually goes smoothly, though contact sports should be avoided for 3 weeks.

Time Off
Most children can return to school after a week, and adults may return to work in 48 hours.

Potential Complications
The scar behind the ear typically fades but may become lumpy in some cases. Infection is rare, and any bleeding is usually minor. Complications of ear surgery like loss of correction can happen, especially if the ears are traumatized before healing is complete. Some numbness or tingling may occur, and additional surgery may be needed in rare cases.

Understanding Ear Infections: More Than Just an Annoyance

Ear infections are often associated with childhood, but adults can also experience painful and persistent infections. While some cases resolve on their own, chronic or severe ear infections can lead to hearing loss, balance issues, and long-term complications. If left untreated, recurring ear infections may indicate an underlying condition that requires specialist care.

Many people dismiss ear infections as minor, but frequent pain, persistent drainage, or hearing difficulties could be a sign that it’s time to see an ENT specialist.

Types of Ear Infections

Ear infections can affect different parts of the ear, and identifying the type of infection is essential for proper treatment:

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): This occurs when the middle ear fills with fluid due to bacteria or viruses. Symptoms include ear pain, pressure, hearing loss, and sometimes fever. Chronic otitis media can lead to permanent damage if left untreated.
Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear): This infection affects the outer ear and ear canal, often caused by bacteria from swimming or excessive moisture. Symptoms include itching, redness, pain, and drainage.
Otitis Interna (Inner Ear Infection): This is rare but can affect balance and hearing. Inner ear infections can cause dizziness, vertigo, nausea, and unsteadiness.

If you experience persistent ear pain, drainage, or hearing loss, a professional ENT evaluation is recommended.

Signs You Need to See an ENT for an Ear Infection

While minor ear infections may improve with home care, some red flags indicate the need for an ENT specialist:

Recurring ear infections (more than 3 per year)
Persistent ear pain lasting more than 48 hours
Hearing difficulties or muffled sounds
Ear drainage (pus or blood-like fluid)
Balance issues, dizziness, or vertigo
Feeling of fullness in the ear that won’t go away
Fever above 102°F accompanied by ear pain

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, seeking medical treatment is critical to prevent long-term complications.

Complications of Untreated Ear Infections

Ignoring chronic or untreated ear infections can lead to severe health issues, including:

Hearing Loss: Repeated infections can cause damage to the eardrum and middle ear, leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss.
Eardrum Perforation: Infections can create holes or tears in the eardrum, causing pain and hearing impairment.
Mastoiditis: A serious infection that spreads to the skull’s mastoid bone, requiring urgent medical treatment.
Balance Problems: Inner ear infections may impact the vestibular system, causing chronic dizziness or vertigo.
Facial Paralysis: Severe infections may affect nearby nerves, leading to temporary or permanent nerve damage.

If an infection does not improve with standard treatment, an ENT specialist may recommend additional testing or ear surgery to prevent further complications.

How an ENT Treats Ear Infections

ENT specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the best treatment. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include:

Antibiotics (Oral or Ear Drops): Used for bacterial ear infections
Decongestants and Nasal Sprays: Help relieve Eustachian tube congestion
Earwax Removal: If wax buildup contributes to infections, an ENT may perform professional cleaning
Ear Tubes: Small tubes inserted into the eardrum to improve drainage and prevent infections
Surgical Options: If chronic infections cause structural damage, procedures like tympanoplasty (eardrum repair) may be needed

For persistent or severe infections, an ENT evaluation ensures that you receive the most effective treatment.

Preventing Future Ear Infections

While not all ear infections can be avoided, taking preventive measures can reduce your risk:

Keep ears dry after swimming or bathing
Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ears
Manage allergies and sinus issues that contribute to ear infections
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent bacterial spread
Treat colds and sinus infections promptly to avoid ear complications

Regular ENT checkups help monitor recurring infections and ensure early treatment before serious complications develop.

Pacific View ENT: Expert Ear Infection Treatment in Camarillo

If you or your child suffers from chronic ear infections, ear pain, or hearing issues, Dr. Armin Alavi at Pacific View ENT provides expert care using advanced diagnostic techniques and personalized treatment plans. Whether you need non-invasive treatment, ear tube placement, or specialized surgical care, our team is committed to restoring your ear health.

To schedule an appointment, please complete the contact form here and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Alternatively, call us at (805) 335-1690 during normal business hours, 8 AM – 5 PM, for immediate assistance.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you experience persistent ear infections, pain, or hearing loss, consult an ENT specialist for a thorough evaluation.