Chronic Ear Disease

Chronic Ear Disease: Understanding Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Chronic ear diseases refer to ongoing conditions in the ear that cause symptoms like pain, hearing loss and drainage. They may be the result of infection or an injury to the ear.

If you are concerned about chronic ear disease, our Providence ENT ear, nose and throat doctors can help.

Symptoms of Chronic Ear Disease

People with chronic ear disease may experience hearing loss, ear pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear or drainage from the ear. Particularly if you’ve started medication for issues with your ear, pay attention to the onset of new symptoms, such as ringing, dizziness or smelly drainage. Additionally, you should seek follow-up care if your initial symptoms are not alleviated.

Types of Chronic Ear Diseases

Common types of chronic ear diseases include:

• Chronic otitis media: Also known as a chronic ear infection, this condition is frequently caused by fluid or swelling in the Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear and the throat, circulating air to make sure pressure on each side of the ear remains even. Infections block the tube and prevent it from draining properly.
• Cholesteatoma: This is a skin growth that can lead to a cyst behind your eardrum. It is often the result of frequent ear infections, issues with your eardrum or pressure in your middle ear. Left untreated, a cholesteatoma can cause dizziness, permanent hearing loss or loss of control of certain facial muscles.

Find Relief from Chronic Ear Disease

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