What are ear diseases?
There are various ear diseases that can affect the outer, middle, or inner ear. Some common ear diseases include:
- Otitis Media: Inflammation of the middle ear, often due to infections. It can cause ear pain and may result in the accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum.
- Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear): Inflammation of the outer ear canal, typically caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It can lead to pain, redness, and swelling.
- Hearing Loss: Can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes, exposure to loud noise, infections, or genetic conditions.
- Tinnitus: Characterized by ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears, tinnitus can result from various factors such as exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, or certain medications.
- Meniere's Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that can cause symptoms like vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears.
- Earwax (Cerumen) Impaction: Buildup of earwax in the ear canal, leading to hearing loss or discomfort.
- Cholesteatoma: A noncancerous cyst in the middle ear, often resulting from chronic ear infections.
- Barotrauma: Ear discomfort or damage caused by changes in pressure, such as during flying or scuba diving.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent ear symptoms or discomfort, as proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing ear diseases effectively.