What Are Grommets Grommets are small plastic tubes that are inserted into a child’s eardrum (tympanic membrane). Grommets are often used for children who suffer from persistent middle ear infections (chronic otitis media) in order to limit complications and improve hearing. Otitis Media and Glue Ear The ear cavity is normally filled with air, a […]
Mastoiditis
About mastoiditis The mastoid process is a sponge-like bone behind the ear. The outer part of the mastoid process is comprised of dense bone and the inner part is filled with tiny interconnecting air sacs. Several neck muscles attach to the mastoid process, including the sternocleidomastoid. The mastoid process and the middle ear communicate with […]
Grommets and water precautions. Are water precautions necessary after tympanostomy tube placement?
By Gabriel J. Tsao MD and Richard L. Goode MD, from The Laryngoscope Triological Society Best Practice Tympanostomy tube insertion is one of the most commonly performed pediatric procedures in the United States. In an effort to reduce the incidence of postoperative otorrhea, many surgeons have traditionally recommended strict avoidance of water exposure to the […]
What Causes a Blocked Middle Ear?
Causes of a blocked middle ear The middle ear is located just behind the eardrum and is the canal that connects the outer part of your ear to the small organs located in the inner ear. When the middle ear is blocked, is can cause pain and severe discomfort. There are many different things that […]
Childhood Ear Infections
One of the most commonly experienced childhood issues are ear infections. Ear infections are likely to happen at least once for any child, but can become serious when frequently experienced. Causes of ear infections Ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses inflaming the ear. Specifically, they are caused by germs infecting and thriving in […]
What Is Otitis Media?
About Otitis Media Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear. Specifically, the middle ear is the area between the inner ear and the tympanic membrane. Middle ear infection is one of the most common causes of an earache. This type of infection can be either acute or chronic, and sometimes, the ear drum ruptures, […]
How the Ear Works
About The Ear Like all our senses many people take hearing for granted until it’s suddenly taken away. The ear is a well-oiled, or waxed, machine and it not only affects a person’s sense of hearing, but can also affect their sense of balance. This is why vertigo or dizziness can occur when a person […]
