Common Ailments of Ears

Ear ailments are a common problem, especially during the first few years of life. Small children are more susceptible to ear infections and other problems because they have an immature immune system. According to the Mayo Clinic, three out of every four children have had an ear infection by age 3.

  1. Fungal Ear Infections

    • Fungal ear infections are caused by an overgrowth of fungus in the ears. These infections can result in complications and even temporary hearing loss. Sometimes the infection clears up on its own, but often medication is needed. Many doctors prescribe antibiotics for this type of infection. Fungus in the ears also can cause pus to accumulate from the infection. Pus will ooze out while the body is dealing with the infection. Cleaning ears along with getting treatment is essential.

      Ear fungus also can cause dry skin in and around the ear. This results in itching and general discomfort. Rubbing olive oil on the outside of the ear is helpful, but medication is often needed as well.

    Otitis externa

    • Otitis externa is inflammation of the ear. This is often caused by excess moisture from spending too much time in the water. Another term for this is swimmer's ear. Inflammation can develop from getting water into the ears after a shower. The pain and discomfort spreads to the inside of the ear and surrounding tissue.

    Tinnitus

    • Tinnitus is described as ringing in the ears. This is a severe complication of ear infections or other ear problems. Tinnitus can cause headaches or result in insomnia. Constant ringing in the ears makes it difficult to sleep through the night. The only way to cure tinnitus is to get treatment for the infection. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or ear drops to clear up the problem. Tinnitus is also described as swishing or loud sounds in the ear. The noises can be caused by wax build up in the ears. Clearing up the wax or the infection is the only cure for tinnitus.

    Wax Build up

    • Wax build up can lead to distressing ear ailments such as earaches and hearing loss, according to the Student Health Center at the University of Virgina. This effect is typically temporary. Doctors dislodged excess wax with water pressure.