How does TMJ cause ear fullness and popping. What are the best treatments for TMJ-related ear issues. Can TMJ lead to hearing problems. How to differentiate TMJ ear symptoms from other ear conditions.

Understanding TMJ and Its Impact on Ear Health

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can have a significant impact on ear health, often causing discomfort and unusual sensations. The close proximity of the TMJ to the ear structures makes it a common source of ear-related symptoms.

TMJ disorders occur when the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull becomes misaligned or damaged. This misalignment can lead to various symptoms, including ear fullness, popping, and crackling sounds.

The Connection Between TMJ and Ear Symptoms

The temporomandibular joint is located just in front of the ear, and its dysfunction can easily affect how the ears feel and function. Several TMJ-related issues can cause ear symptoms:

• Muscle tension in the jaw can trigger tension in the stapedius muscle of the inner ear
• Chronic teeth clenching or grinding can cause muscle spasms affecting the Eustachian tube
• Misalignment of the joint can put pressure on surrounding structures, including those in the ear

Recognizing TMJ-Related Ear Symptoms

Identifying TMJ-related ear symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Crackling or popping sounds in the ears
• A feeling of fullness or stuffiness in the ears
• Muffled hearing
• Ear pain or discomfort
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Is it possible to differentiate TMJ ear symptoms from other ear conditions? While some symptoms may overlap with other ear issues, TMJ-related ear problems often occur alongside other TMJ symptoms such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or facial pain.

The Phenomenon of TMJ Ears Popping

TMJ ears popping is a common complaint among those with temporomandibular joint disorders. This phenomenon, known as crepitus, occurs when damaged tissues in the joint rub against each other, producing a distinctive sound or sensation.

Causes of TMJ Ears Popping

Several factors can contribute to TMJ ears popping:

1. Misalignment of the temporomandibular joint
2. Cartilage damage within the joint
3. Inflammation of surrounding tissues
4. Muscle tension affecting the joint’s movement

Can TMJ cause permanent damage to the ears? While TMJ-related ear symptoms are often temporary, chronic TMJ disorders left untreated may lead to more persistent ear problems or even hearing changes in some cases.

Diagnosing TMJ-Related Ear Issues

Proper diagnosis of TMJ-related ear issues is essential for effective treatment. Dentists specializing in TMJ disorders often use a combination of methods to diagnose the condition:

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding areas
• Detailed medical history
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
• Evaluation of jaw movement and function

How can healthcare professionals differentiate between TMJ ear symptoms and other ear conditions? A comprehensive examination that includes both dental and audiological assessments can help distinguish TMJ-related ear issues from other ear problems.

Effective Treatments for TMJ Fullness in the Ears

Treating TMJ fullness in the ears often involves addressing the underlying TMJ disorder. Several treatment options are available, depending on the severity and specific symptoms:

Conservative Treatments

• Oral splints or mouth guards to reduce teeth grinding and clenching
• Physical therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles
• Stress management techniques to reduce tension in the jaw
• Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding hard foods or excessive gum chewing

Advanced Treatments

For more severe cases, advanced treatments may be necessary:

• Orthotic appliances to decompress the joint and restore proper alignment
• TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) therapy to relax jaw muscles
• Botox injections to reduce muscle tension in severe cases
• In rare cases, surgical intervention may be considered

How long does it typically take to see improvements in TMJ-related ear symptoms with treatment? The timeline for improvement can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition, but many patients report some relief within a few weeks of starting treatment.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for TMJ Ear Symptoms

In addition to professional treatments, several home remedies and self-care techniques can help alleviate TMJ-related ear symptoms:

• Applying heat or cold packs to the jaw area
• Practicing gentle jaw stretches and exercises
• Maintaining good posture to reduce strain on the jaw
• Avoiding excessive jaw movements, such as wide yawning or gum chewing
• Using over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by a healthcare professional

Are there any dietary changes that can help manage TMJ ear symptoms? Some individuals find relief by adopting a soft food diet temporarily and avoiding chewy or hard foods that may exacerbate jaw tension.

The Role of Specialized Care in TMJ Treatment

Seeking specialized care for TMJ-related ear issues can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Centers like Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders offer comprehensive care for individuals suffering from TMJ disorders and related symptoms.

Benefits of Specialized TMJ Care

• Access to experts with in-depth knowledge of TMJ disorders
• Comprehensive diagnostic procedures
• Customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs
• Integration of various treatment modalities for optimal results

How does a multidisciplinary approach benefit patients with TMJ-related ear issues? A team of specialists can address all aspects of the condition, from dental concerns to audiological symptoms, ensuring a more holistic and effective treatment approach.

Preventing TMJ-Related Ear Problems

While not all TMJ disorders can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of developing TMJ-related ear problems:

• Practicing good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
• Avoiding excessive jaw movements or habits that strain the TMJ
• Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth during sleep
• Seeking early treatment for jaw pain or discomfort

Can regular dental check-ups help in preventing TMJ disorders? Regular dental examinations can help identify early signs of TMJ issues, allowing for prompt intervention and potentially preventing the development of more severe symptoms, including ear-related problems.

Living with TMJ: Long-Term Management and Outlook

For many individuals, managing TMJ disorders and related ear symptoms is an ongoing process. Long-term management often involves a combination of professional care and self-management strategies:

• Regular follow-ups with TMJ specialists
• Consistent use of prescribed treatments or devices
• Ongoing practice of jaw exercises and relaxation techniques
• Monitoring and adapting to changes in symptoms
• Maintaining overall health and wellness to support TMJ health

What is the long-term outlook for individuals with TMJ-related ear symptoms? With proper management and care, many people experience significant improvement in their symptoms over time. However, the course of TMJ disorders can vary, and some individuals may require ongoing treatment to maintain symptom relief.

The Importance of Patient Education

Education plays a crucial role in the successful management of TMJ disorders and related ear symptoms. Understanding the condition, its triggers, and effective management strategies empowers patients to take an active role in their treatment and recovery.

How can patients stay informed about new developments in TMJ treatment? Staying in touch with TMJ specialists, participating in support groups, and following reputable health information sources can help patients stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in TMJ care.

Advancing Research in TMJ Disorders and Ear Health

Ongoing research in the field of TMJ disorders continues to shed light on the complex relationship between jaw health and ear function. Current areas of study include:

• Genetic factors influencing TMJ disorders
• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Novel treatment approaches, including regenerative medicine
• The impact of TMJ disorders on overall health and quality of life

How might future advancements in TMJ research benefit patients with ear-related symptoms? Continued research may lead to more targeted treatments, improved diagnostic tools, and potentially even preventative measures for TMJ-related ear issues.

Participating in TMJ Research

Patients with TMJ disorders may have opportunities to contribute to advancing research in the field. Clinical trials and research studies often seek participants to help test new treatments or gather data on the condition.

How can interested individuals find information about participating in TMJ research? Consulting with TMJ specialists, checking clinical trial databases, or contacting academic medical centers can provide information on current research opportunities.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach to TMJ and Ear Health

Addressing TMJ-related ear issues often requires a holistic approach that considers not only the physical symptoms but also the broader impact on an individual’s life. This comprehensive perspective includes:

• Evaluating the impact of TMJ symptoms on sleep quality
• Assessing and managing stress levels
• Considering the potential influence of diet and nutrition
• Addressing any co-existing conditions that may exacerbate symptoms
• Exploring the psychological impact of chronic TMJ issues

How does a holistic approach improve outcomes for patients with TMJ-related ear symptoms? By addressing all aspects of a patient’s health and lifestyle, a holistic approach can lead to more effective symptom management and improved overall well-being.

Integrating Complementary Therapies

Some patients find relief from TMJ-related ear symptoms through complementary therapies, which can be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Biofeedback
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Yoga or tai chi for stress reduction and improved body awareness

Can complementary therapies replace conventional TMJ treatments? While complementary therapies can be beneficial, they are typically most effective when used in conjunction with, rather than in place of, conventional medical treatments for TMJ disorders.

The Future of TMJ and Ear Health Care

As our understanding of TMJ disorders and their impact on ear health continues to evolve, the future of care in this field looks promising. Emerging trends and potential advancements include:

• Personalized medicine approaches tailored to individual genetic profiles
• Advanced 3D imaging and modeling for more precise diagnosis and treatment planning
• Development of targeted biologics for treating TMJ inflammation
• Integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostic processes
• Telemedicine applications for remote monitoring and management of TMJ symptoms

How might these advancements change the landscape of TMJ and ear health care? Future developments could lead to more precise, effective, and accessible treatments for TMJ-related ear issues, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life for patients.

The Role of Patient Advocacy

Patient advocacy plays a crucial role in advancing care for TMJ disorders and related ear issues. Advocacy efforts can:

• Raise awareness about TMJ disorders and their impact
• Promote increased funding for research
• Improve access to specialized care
• Support policy changes to enhance insurance coverage for TMJ treatments

How can individuals get involved in TMJ patient advocacy? Joining patient support groups, participating in awareness campaigns, and sharing personal experiences can all contribute to advancing the cause of TMJ disorder recognition and treatment.

How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

Home » How Do You Treat TMJ Fullness in the Ears?

You cannot copy content of this website, your IP is being recorded

Do you have a crackling sound in your ear due to TMJ?! Call our dedicated team today at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders or visit us online to book an appointment. We have convenient locations across the U.S. in Bloomington IL, Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX and Wausau WI.

Table of Contents:

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?
How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?
How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

Crepitus is a sound or vibration that occurs when tissues in the body, such as cartilage in the joints, are damaged and rub against one another. One of the most common causes of crepitus is dysfunction of the TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ disorder occurs when the various parts in the temporomandibular joint become misaligned; this can cause the bone to rub on bone or cartilage. This rubbing can damage cartilage, causing it to develop into crepitus.

Can TMJ cause a crackling sound in your ears?

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause a crackling sound to occur in the ears; this is known as crepitus. In addition to a crackling or popping sound, crepitus also refers to a grating sensation produced by the friction of bone rubbing against cartilage. Crackling in the ears does not only occur from TMJ disorder, it can also be the result of ear wax that has dried on the eardrum. When the dried wax expands, it cracks, which is audible in the ear canal as a crackling, crunching or popping sound.

How do I get rid of the crunching sound in my ear?

When a crunching or crackling sound is audible in the ears, it is likely caused by dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. In order to address this concern, the underlying cause of the crunching sound must first be taken care of. The best way to find the most effective treatment is by visiting a dentist who specializes in treating temporomandibular joint disorders. The dentist may utilize any one of several different modalities, including oral splints and mouth guards, or they may even prescribe physical therapy to help stretch the jaw muscles and relieve tension on the temporomandibular joint. Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises can improve TMJ health, reducing symptoms.

How do you treat TMJ fullness in the ears?

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is positioned just in front of the ear; dysfunction with this joint can therefore easily impact how the ears feel. Several TMJ-related causes can cause stuffiness of the ear; tension in some of the jaw muscles can actually trigger tension in the stapedius muscle, the muscle of the inner ear. When this occurs, the eardrum tenses and can give a sense of stuffiness or diminished hearing. Chronic clenching or grinding of the teeth can trigger these types of spasms; the more frequently teeth clenching or grinding occurs, the more severe the ear symptoms will be. Other jaw muscles can also spasm from chronic clenching, causing the Eustachian tube to narrow or close. This affects inner ear pressure and can muffle hearing, similar to how ears pop when descending in an airplane.

In hard-to-diagnose cases that involve muffled hearing, ear pain, hearing changes or itching deep in the ear, it is likely that a chronic TMJ condition exists. In the treatment of TMJ disorder, using orthotic appliances to decompress the joint can restore ear function and improve hearing. Orthotic appliances are different from other techniques such as bite adjustment and bite equilibration as they use orthopedic medicine to improve jaw function.

In some cases, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) may be used; this technique confuses the muscle memory to find the optimal resting position of the jaw. This can effectively ameliorate ear fullness when caused by the temporomandibular joint disorder.

If you are experiencing fullness in your ears, trust the team at Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders to provide you with relief.

Additional Services You May Need

▸ KoalaKIDZzz®
▸ Sleep Apnea
▸ Snoring
▸ TMJ Disorder
▸ Fatigue
▸ Sleep Disorders
▸ Weight Loss
▸ CPAP Alternative
▸ Oral Appliances

El Paso

• 6901 Helen of Troy, Ste D-2 El Paso, TX 79911
• View Details

Kansas City

• 2008 Swift Ave, Kansas City, MO 64116
• View Details

Bloomington

• 309 E. Empire St. Ste 500, Bloomington, IL 61704
• View Details

Peoria

• 11825 N. State Rt 40, Ste 100, Dunlap, IL 61525
• View Details

Mishawaka

• 230 E. Day Rd., Suite 150, Mishawaka, IN 46545
• View Details

Wausau

• 413 North 17th Avenue Ste. #100, Wausau, WI. 54401
• View Details

Directions To Nearest Koala Location

*In case of a life threatening emergency, immediately call 911.
**For any medical procedures, patients may respond to treatment differently, each patients results may vary.
***Information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this site is for general information purposes only.
****By using this website and sending us your information, you are giving us permission to contact you by electronic and non-electronic means. We also track the conversions and collect user data to improve marketing.
*****If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact us.

Can TMJ Cause My Jaw or Ears to Pop?

Home Dental Treatments TMJ Dentistry Can TMJ Cause My Jaw or Ears to Pop?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, often referred to simply as TMJ, can cause a range of problems with the jaw, face, and even the ears.

The temporomandibular joints exist on either side of the head close to the ears and help facilitate jaw movement. It is because of the temporomandibular joint that we can speak, chew, yawn, and smile.

When there is a problem with one or more temporomandibular joints, it can cause issues with the jaw and ears. But can TMJ cause your jaw or ears to pop? Here’s what you need to know.

TMJ Can Cause Unusual Jaw Popping or Clicking Sounds

People with TMJ disorders frequently report that their jaw makes popping or clicking noises when in motion. Any movement—from speaking to chewing to yawning—may cause these unusual sounds in the jaw. Some people hear a popping noise, but others may hear a clicking or even a grating sound when moving their mouth.

If you have a TMJ disorder, these sounds may be accompanied by pain or discomfort, but this won’t be true in every case [1].

Ear Problems and TMJ

Temporomandibular joint issues can cause your ears to feel as though they are popping, but they can also cause other issues with the ears, including ringing in the ears, aching ears, or hearing loss [2].

If you experience any type of ear discomfort, it may not be related to an ear infection. Since the temporomandibular joint is located so close to the ears, any inflammation or discomfort related to these joints has the potential to cause ear symptoms.

Ear problems can coincide with other symptoms of TMJ, including popping and clicking noises, jaw or facial discomfort, and trouble opening the mouth all the way. However, it’s also possible for these symptoms to exist separately, so don’t immediately discount a TMJ disorder, even if you are only having ear symptoms.

Can TMJ-Related Popping Noises Be Treated?

Whether you’re experiencing jaw or ear popping related to TMJ, the good news is that, in many cases, it can be treated. TMJ disorders may have an underlying cause that you can address with your dentist to help your symptoms go away.

For example, overuse of the jaw joint or even teeth that don’t fit together properly can trigger TMJ symptoms. So reducing activities that aggravate the jaw joint, such as chewing gum, or getting orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth can help resolve the problem.

Other people may benefit from physical therapy, medication, or jaw exercises [3]. Your dentist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that makes the most sense based on your symptoms and potential underlying causes of the disorder.

Do You Have Symptoms of TMJ?

If you have symptoms of TMJ, including jaw or ear popping, ask your dentist during your next checkup if you could be suffering from a TMJ disorder and if so, what treatment or management options may be available.

Sources:
1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319888
2. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd#symptoms
3. https://tmj.org/living-with-tmj/treatments/

Summary

Recent Posts

INJURIES OF THE EARDYRUM | Centrum Słuchu i Mowy MEDINCUS

What causes damage to the eardrum?
The most common causes of damage to the eardrum are chronic inflammation of the middle ear or trauma (for example, barotrauma after an explosion, a blow to the ear, or damage to the eardrum when cleaning the ear with various objects that are not intended for this).

What types of damage to the eardrum exist?
There are different types of damage to the eardrum:

• perforation

• destruction of the tympanic membrane structure due to retraction, which is the result of long-term inflammatory processes that occur when the auditory tube is obstructed, the purpose of which is to equalize pressure on both sides of the tympanic membrane. In these cases, the tympanic membrane may remain continuous, but without elastic elements, it may overstretch and not perform its function. It can lie on the structures of the middle ear (for example, on the auditory ossicles) and adhere to them and sometimes destroy them.

Is eardrum damage dangerous?
Due to the possibility of complications, each damage to the eardrum should be under periodic supervision and appropriate treatment. Damage to the tympanic membrane in the form of a perforation located on the edge is more dangerous than in the central parts, since there is a possibility that the epidermis will grow into the tympanic cavity (cholesteatoma). This epidermis can cause destruction of ear structures with purulent inflammation, hearing loss and the possibility of serious complications. In each case, perforation of the tympanic membrane is the site of infection in the middle ear (you can not wet the ear). In case of damage to the tympanic membrane due to excessive retraction, destruction of the auditory ossicles (hearing loss), as well as the appearance of perforation and ingrowth of the epidermis into the middle ear is possible.

How is eardrum damage diagnosed?
Damage to the tympanic membrane (inflammation of the ear, trauma) can be preliminarily identified on the basis of a medical examination (inflammation of the ear with or without discharge, trauma). The diagnosis can be made after a precise examination using an otoscope. Video otoscopy (examination of the ear with a small camera) and a diagnostic microscope, which we use in daily practice, make it possible to identify even minor damage to the eardrum. An audiometric study is most often helpful in diagnosing hearing loss.

What causes hearing loss when the eardrum is damaged?
Damage to the eardrum disrupts the sound wave reaching the ear. Weak vibration of the damaged tympanic membrane causes weakening of the movement of the auditory ossicles associated with it, as a result of which the sound transmission to the inner ear deteriorates. All of the above is expressed in conductive hearing loss. If damage to the eardrum is combined with damage to the ossicular chain, then most often the degree of hearing loss is even more pronounced. In case of damage to the eardrum due to barotrauma, for example after an explosion, changes in the inner ear may occur, which affects the deterioration of the receiving system of the ear, which leads to perceptual hearing loss. It can also cause tinnitus and possible dizziness. If both types of hearing loss exist at the same time, then we are talking about a mixed type of hearing loss.

How can damage to the eardrum be treated?
In the case of a small central perforation without complications, the patient is prescribed observation for several months, since the tympanic membrane has the ability to regenerate, and there is often the possibility of fusion without medical intervention. When the perforation does not heal, complications can occur (eg, the edges of the perforation begin to curl up, which can lead to their ingrowth into the tympanic cavity). In cases of perforation at the edges and in cases of excessive retraction of the tympanic membrane, along with the onset of destruction of the auditory ossicles or ingrowth of the epidermis into the tympanic membrane, surgical treatment is prescribed.

What is myringoplasty and what is it based on?
Myringoplasty, i.e. the reconstruction of the tympanic membrane, is performed through the external auditory canal, so no scars are visible from the outside (it is possible to perform the operation using an incision behind the auricle, but this is rarely used). In many cases, an additional incision is needed to obtain material for the reconstruction. The material can be a perichondrium resembling a piece of polyethylene or a thin piece of cartilage from the auricle (about 1 cm incision in an almost imperceptible part of the auricle) or part of the fascia of the temporalis muscle (about 2 cm incision in the scalp). The above materials are the person’s own tissues, so they are completely safe and there is no risk of infection. The choice of appropriate materials depends on the condition of the ear and the results of the hearing test. Doctors often decide which materials to use during surgery. The tympanic membrane is reconstructed using material that takes root in the surrounding tissues. After the operation, a dressing remains in the ear, and the doctor puts stitches in the places of incisions. After the stitches are removed, when the wound heals, the scars are almost or completely invisible. The auditory and anatomical result of the operation can be seen only after the removal of the dressing (most often after a week).

What improvement in hearing can be expected after surgery?
Hearing improvement after surgery is possible only within the limits that were determined on the basis of hearing tests before the procedure (the maximum ear performance is determined by the so-called bone conduction curve presented on a tone audiogram). The purpose of the operation is to remove the so-called reserves of the cochlea, which is shown on the audiogram as a space between the curves of air and bone conduction. In most cases, after the operation, the cochlear reserve closes completely, that is, theoretically, the maximum possible improvement in hearing occurs. In some cases, some cochlear reserve may remain even if the ear is healed and the patient has a good anatomical outcome of the operation. This depends on previous inflammatory changes in the tympanic membrane (eg, tympanosclerotic changes that adversely affect the conduction of sounds and cause the tympanic membrane to harden). In some patients, the purpose of the operation is not to improve hearing, but to protect the ear from infection that enters with water and earwax.

What type of anesthesia do doctors use during myringoplasty?
These surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia (narcosis). It ensures the safety of the patient and the comfort of the surgeon. It is possible to use local anesthesia, but only in cases where local anesthesia for medical reasons is the only acceptable form. Patients need small doses of pain medication from time to time after surgery.

Are there complications after myringoplasty?
In medicine, it is not possible to guarantee the full effectiveness of therapy. Possible complications after surgery can be divided into general and surgical. The general ones are associated with infections, anesthesia, drugs, movement restrictions, comorbidities, etc. The doctor responsible for the safe course of anesthesia (anaesthesiologist) will ask you for more information to reduce the risk of these complications. In addition, it will be necessary to perform several additional studies, such as determining the blood group with the Rh factor, morphology and biochemical blood tests, blood clotting tests, urine tests, and others.
Otosurgical complications: profound hearing loss or complete deafness of the operated ear, damage to the facial nerve, which can cause damage to the muscles of the face of the operated side, damage to the tympanic string, signs of which are taste disorders in the tongue of the operated side, prolonged imbalance, the occurrence or intensification of tinnitus, perforation eardrum, no improvement in hearing. The above complications are very rare, and their number depends on the experience of the operating team.

How does the postoperative period look like?
The most difficult are the first hours after anesthesia. During the first day, dizziness and nausea sometimes appear, which are the result of anesthetics or actions near the middle ear. The hospital stay is usually one to several days after surgery. After the complete removal of the bandage from the ear (about 7 days after the operation), the patient may already feel an improvement in hearing, even if the eardrum is still healing. Control hearing tests are performed at different time intervals, but the objective result of the operation can be assessed 4 weeks after the operation.

What are the tips after myringoplasty?
In the early period after surgery, the patient should lead a cautious lifestyle and avoid infection (it is necessary to avoid contact with people who have respiratory tract infections). After removal of the dressing, immediate noise must be avoided. Within a month it is impossible to wet the operated ear. After the operation, it is recommended to undergo audiological control at intervals of 1, 3, 6, 12 months.

Otitis media is a disease of one or more parts of the ear – outer, middle, inner. What to do?

• home

• News

06/10/2020

Contents

• Otitis, or when the ear hurts

• Otitis externa

• Otitis media

• otitis media

Otitis, or when the ear hurts

Otitis media is a disease of one or more parts of the ear – external, middle, internal – of an infectious, allergic, mechanical or other nature, occurring acutely or of a chronic nature. Persons of both sexes and all ages get sick, however, due to the anatomical features of the ear, children are more likely to experience otitis media. Its diagnosis and treatment are within the competence of an ENT doctor.

The main thing: otitis media is a serious disease, with improper treatment, it leads to the development of dangerous complications. Self-medication is unacceptable

Subscribe to LOR

Otitis externa

The outer ear is represented by the auricle, external auditory canal, auditory tube and ends with a membrane – the tympanic membrane. Its task is to capture sound waves and direct them to deeper structures – the inner ear.

The main causes of otitis externa are ear trauma, more often mechanical, and it affects mainly the elderly.

Symptoms:

• pain in the ear of a pulsating nature, radiating to the teeth, eye and neck on the side of the lesion;

• during a conversation or chewing, the intensity of pain increases;

• in severe purulent inflammation, if the ear canal is filled with exudate, the patient’s hearing is reduced.

Treatment is usually conservative and includes the treatment of affected areas of the skin with antiseptic solutions in combination with physiotherapy. Boils or abscesses are opened surgically.

Subscribe to LOR

Otitis media

So called inflammation of the structures of the middle ear. It is represented by the tympanic cavity, in which there are three sound bones – hammer, anvil, stirrup; externally bounded by the tympanic membrane, internally by the opening of the temporal bone. Sound vibrations are transmitted from the eardrum sequentially to each of the three bones and then through the opening of the temporal bone into the inner ear.

Otitis media leaves about 25% of cases of visits to an otolaryngologist. Children often get sick.

The cause of it is usually an infection: viruses, bacteria or fungi. It rarely develops as an independent pathology – it usually complicates the course of other ENT diseases – rhinitis, sinusitis, adenoiditis and others.

Risk factors are:

• dry air;

• foci of chronic infection located near the ear, for example, enlarged adenoids in children;

• surgical interventions, injuries of the upper respiratory tract;

• immunodeficiencies.

The acute form of the disease begins suddenly, it is characterized by:

• intense pain in the ear, often of a shooting nature, aggravated by the position of the patient lying on the affected side;

• an increase in body temperature up to 38 ° C or more.

Pus accumulates in the tympanic cavity and after 1-3 days it becomes so much that the tympanic membrane cannot withstand pressure and bursts – the purulent contents of the middle ear flow out through the ear canal. After that, the body temperature decreases slightly, the pain becomes less intense.

With an unfavorable course of the disease, pus breaks into the inner ear and the cranial cavity, causing the development of serious complications.

Chronic otitis media occurs with alternating periods of exacerbation of the disease, when the symptoms are pronounced, and remissions – the patient feels relatively or completely satisfactory.

The basis of the treatment of this pathology is antibiotic therapy in combination with vasoconstrictor, antiseptic and fluid-improving drugs.

Subscribe to LOR

Otitis media

Inflammatory process in the structures of the inner ear. Another name is labyrinth.

The inner ear is a system of channels, it is called the cochlea, located deep in the temporal bone. Inside the channels there is liquid and special cells with hairs. Getting there, sound vibrations are transformed into nerve impulses and enter the necessary parts of the brain along the auditory nerve.

As a rule, it is a complication of acute otitis media.