Ear Disorders

Northwest ENT and Allergy Center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear pain, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and vertigo (dizziness).

At Northwest ENT and Allergy Center, our ENT specialists treat a variety of ear conditions for both children and adults, including but not limited to ear trauma, ear pain, and dizziness.

From audiologic testing, such as a hearing or ear pressure tests, to comprehensive hearing aid services, we have the expertise and resources to accurately pinpoint the source of symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan that works for you.

Ear Pain

Ear pain is a common complaint resulting from infection, poor eustachian tube function, or temporomandibular joint problems (TMJ).

TMJ is a frequent cause of pain in the ear area and is often misdiagnosed. Treatment can include anti-inflammatory medication and/or a dental splint.

Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear)

Swimmer’s Ear is an infection that occurs in the skin of the ear canal.

Symptoms can include:

Pain
Tenderness to the touch
Drainage

Serous Otitis Media (Middle Ear Fluid)

Serous Otitis Media means there is fluid behind the eardrum and can have multiple causes.

Symptoms include:

Hearing loss
Blocked sensation
Vertigo

Your doctor will properly diagnose this condition and recommend a course of treatment.

Middle Ear Infections

When abnormal fluid in the middle ear becomes infected with bacteria, it is considered a middle ear infection.

Symptoms include:

Fever
Ear pain that is worse when laying down
Difficulty sleeping and irritability

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed for children with middle ear infections; however, some children have recurring infections that may require ear tubes to equalize pressure and eliminate future infections.

Eardrum Perforations

Perforations of the eardrum usually result from infection or trauma.

Perforations due to chronic infection may not heal and can be associated with some degree of hearing loss. Surgical procedures may be required to repair the eardrum.

Tympanic Membrane Perforation:

Dizziness

The term dizziness is a general term that represents different sensations for different people.

Symptoms include:

A sensation of movement, spinning or swaying
Nausea
Trouble walking or standing

Although dizziness is highly treatable, it is important for your physician to determine the root cause of dizziness before recommending a course of treatment.

Dizziness can be caused by several conditions, including:

Poor circulation
Anxiety
Vertigo
Meniere’s Disease
Migraines
Medications

To pinpoint the cause of dizziness, a full medical history and complete examination by one of our ENT physicians are necessary.

Ear Disorder Diagnosis

Tympanotomy

Tympanotomy refers to a surgical approach to diagnosing issues within the middle ear and its structures. This procedure helps to show your ear’s response to varying pressures and identifies problems needing medical attention.

Here are a few videos demonstrating various results:

Right Middle Ear Effusion (Fluid Behind the Eardrum):

Left Ear Canal and Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane):

Right Ear Canal and Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane):