Otology

Excess fluid buildup in the middle ear is responsible for most cases of recurring ear infections we see. This tends to occur mostly in children because of the shape and size of the structures in their middle ear, although ear infections can affect adults, too.

Our ENT surgeons have successfully treated chronic middle ear infections with a quick outpatient procedure (myringotomy) in which tubes are placed in the eardrums to prevent fluid buildup for up to a year, when the tubes are naturally pushed out of the ears on their own – so no follow-up surgery is necessary to remove the tubes.

It is natural for the ear canal to produce a waxy substance (called cerumen) that helps to keep external dust and debris from making its way into the ears. Occasionally, too much wax builds up in the ears and can cause a blockage, dizziness, earache, tinnitus, or even temporary hearing loss.

The removal of earwax is a delicate process. In fact, the most common cause of earwax buildup is the attempt to remove earwax at home, which only pushes the wax deeper into the ear canal. Having the evaluation, earwax removal, and cleaning at your ENT’s office will ensure the tiny, sensitive structures of the ear are not harmed in the process.

There are several different types of hearing loss, depending on the location of the damage. Hearing disorders and loss can be caused by all sorts of injuries and illnesses such as infection, eardrum perforation, head trauma, and exposure to loud noises.

At ENT & Allergy Center of Austin, our comprehensive, in-house audiology department offers the full spectrum of hearing tests, as well as assistance with the evaluation, selection, and fitting of hearing aids. We can also create custom ear plugs that are popular among swimmers and musicians.

Meniere's disease is an inner-ear disorder that can affect a person’s balance, causing symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Symptoms may begin in one ear before occurring in both ears.

An important step in the diagnosis and treatment of Meniere’s disease is an appropriate hearing and balance assessment. Treatment for Meniere’s disease focuses on relieving a patient’s symptoms. The in-house audiology department at ENT & Allergy Center of Austin offers our patients one-stop convenience with both evaluation and treatment available.

Infection in the outer ear canal is commonly referred to as “swimmer’s ear.” This is because it typically occurs when water becomes trapped in the outer ear after swimming and is then infected by bacteria or fungi. Symptoms include redness, warmth, and pain in the area.

Medication is a typical treatment for swimmer’s ear. Seeing your ENT for evaluation and treatment can ensure there are no other ear disorders that may be contributing to the condition, especially if the infections are chronic.