Ear Care and Hearing Treatments at Gold Standard Sleep & ENT Clinic
Common Ear Conditions and Symptoms
Ear troubles can manifest in various ways, often causing discomfort and affecting daily life. Many patients experience ear pain, which can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. You might notice decreased hearing or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, is another common complaint. Some individuals experience dizziness or problems with balance. In San Antonio's climate, swimmers and water enthusiasts may be particularly prone to outer ear infections, often called "swimmer's ear." Allergies, which are common in our region, can also contribute to ear discomfort, especially during cedar fever season. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, our team is equipped to provide expert care.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach for Ear Troubles
At our office, we employ a comprehensive approach to diagnose ear troubles. We begin with a detailed medical history, asking about the nature and duration of your symptoms, as well as any relevant lifestyle factors or recent illnesses. This is followed by a thorough physical examination of your ears, which may include the use of an otoscope to visualize your ear canal and eardrum. For more in-depth evaluation, we offer specialized tests such as tympanometry to assess eardrum function, and audiometry to measure your hearing acuity. In some cases, we might recommend imaging studies like CT scans to get a detailed view of your ear structures. Our goal is to accurately identify the cause of your ear troubles, whether it's an infection, injury, or a more complex condition.
Treatment Options for Ear Infections and Hearing Loss
Our treatment recommendations are tailored to the specific cause of your ear troubles. For ear infections, we may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications, depending on the type of infection. If you're dealing with chronic sinusitis or allergies affecting your ears, we might suggest nasal corticosteroids or antihistamines. For issues like earwax blockage, we can perform professional cleaning in our office. Tinnitus management may involve sound therapy or cognitive behavioral techniques. If hearing loss is identified, we can discuss hearing aid options or other assistive devices. For balance disorders related to inner ear problems, we offer vestibular rehabilitation therapy. In cases of chronic or severe conditions, such as persistent perforated eardrums or certain types of hearing loss, we may recommend surgical interventions. We also provide guidance on preventive measures, such as proper ear protection for swimmers or during loud events, which are common in San Antonio's vibrant music scene.
When to Seek Treatment for Ear Issues
We encourage you to schedule an appointment if you're experiencing persistent ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or prolonged dizziness. If you notice drainage from your ear or a sudden change in hearing following exposure to loud noise or water activities, it's important to seek prompt medical attention. Recurring ear infections or a feeling of fullness that doesn't resolve on its own also warrant a visit. For our patients with allergies, if you notice increased ear discomfort during high pollen seasons, particularly during San Antonio's cedar fever months, it's a good time to consult with our team. Additionally, if you're having trouble hearing conversations or find yourself constantly increasing the volume on your devices, it may be time for a hearing evaluation. Our experienced ENT team is here to provide expert diagnosis and effective treatment for all your ear-related concerns, helping you maintain optimal ear health in San Antonio's unique environment.