Ear Problems
Ear issues are a common experience for many individuals, affecting various parts such as the outer, middle, or inner ear. These conditions encompass infections, inflammations, and wax accumulation. Although they can range from discomfort to severe pain, your local pharmacist is well-equipped to assist. They are accustomed to aiding individuals with ear ailments, guiding them toward suitable treatments or directing them to a physician if necessary.
Frequent ear problems include:
Middle ear inflammation, known as otitis media, is often triggered by a cold and sometimes accompanied by fever.
Glue ear, a chronic condition primarily affecting children, characterised by thick fluid buildup behind the eardrum, potentially causing hearing impairment.
Excessive earwax accumulation, which can solidify and obstruct the ear canal. Treatment may involve wax-softening drops or professional removal.
Swimmer's ear, an outer ear inflammation resulting from water exposure, making the area susceptible to infection.
Infectious myringitis is an eardrum inflammation that may require antibiotics or other interventions.
Acute mastoiditis is an infection of the bone behind the ear necessitating immediate medical attention due to fever and intense pain.
Tinnitus, manifesting as phantom noises in the ears without external stimuli.
Vestibular neuronitis, causing dizziness, vertigo, vomiting, and nausea due to inflammation of the vestibular nerve.
Herpes zoster of the ear occurs when the herpes zoster virus affects the cochlear nerve, leading to pain, vertigo, and blisters on the outer ear, ear canal, and sometimes the face and neck.
Barotrauma, discomfort in the ear resulting from pressure changes, often due to blockage of the eustachian tube.
To safeguard our ears, it's crucial to avoid inserting foreign objects like cotton buds, refrain from deep diving during a cold, wear hearing protection in noisy environments, and promptly consult a pharmacist at the first signs of ear pain, discomfort, or discharge.
