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Ears, Hearing & Balance

1. CERUMEN OR EAR WAX REMOVAL IN BOMBAY CITY

Why is ear wax produced by the body?
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a normal and healthy lubricant formed by the body. It is created in order to protect the ear and even has antibacterial properties. Most of the time, ear canals clean themselves: ear wax slowly migrates away from the eardrum and out of the ear canal. Sometimes, ear wax can build up and cause pain and in some cases can lead to other health complications.

When should ear wax be removed?
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, ear wax should only be removed when enough symptoms accumulate to warrant a proper cleaning. Symptoms include:

  • Pain, feeling of plugging, or fullness in the ear
  • Partial hearing loss
  • Itching, foul odor, or discharge in the ear
  • Extreme coughing
  • Tinnitus (ringing or other noises in the ear)

How to remove earwax at home
If symptoms are mild, gentle ear cleaning can be done at home. However, it should be done with caution and without inserting anything into the ear canal. Usually, ear wax buildup will go away on its own, by the natural irrigation process in the ear.

  • Cleaning outside of the ear with a cloth
  • Saline solution irrigation
  • Dissolving wax inside ear canal using cerumenolytic solutions:
  • Baby oil
  • Mineral oil
  • Glycerin
  • Peroxide-based ear drops

What to expect during ear wax removal
If you experience more serious symptoms, such as hearing loss or pain, an ENT specialist should be consulted. Bombay ENT doctors can provide a number of solutions for ear wax removal treatments, depending on the severity of the ear wax impaction (or buildup). If the buildup warrants it, a prescription medication or in-office ear wax extraction procedure may be performed.

Ear wax removal treatment
Ear wax removal treatments may include:

  • Prescription ear drops, used to soften ear wax
  • Removing wax with special instruments and microscopic visualization

If you are suffering from ear wax buildup, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear wax removal doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ear conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

2. HEARING LOSS TEST IN NYC

What is a hearing test?
Hearing impairment is a medical condition that requires the evaluation and diagnosis by a medical doctor, preferably one who specializes in ear, nose and throat medicine, such as Bombay ENT. After an initial evaluation by a physician, an audiologist may also conduct a hearing test. These tests are performed to accurately diagnose the type and cause of hearing loss in a patient. There are two types of hearing loss that can occur, conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. Both of these can be diagnosed by an ear, nose, and throat doctor using one of the following hearing tests:

  • Audiometric examination
  • Electronystagmogram (ENG)
  • Electrocochleography (ESoG)

Why is a hearing test performed?
Hearing tests are performed to test a patient’s hearing, balance, and fluid pressure in the ear. All of these factors can be indicators for hearing loss as well as other hearing-related conditions, such as tinnitus and vertigo.

What does a hearing test involve?
Experiences will vary, depending on the testing needed for each patient’s particular needs, however, patients can generally expect to visit the doctor’s office and undergo a general physical examination prior to any specific hearing tests. Your doctor will also likely perform a medical history exam, by asking questions about your past conditions as well as your past and current symptoms relating to hearing. At Bombay ENT, our specialists include audiologists, who can conduct a hearing test during the same day. Some specific tests that may be performed include:

  • Audiometric examination is a standard hearing test, typically indicating sensory hearing loss. Patients are tested on their ability to distinguish differences between words that have only minor differences (such as “cat” and “hat”). Inability to differentiate between similar words usually indicates hearing loss.
  • ENG testing can be performed to evaluate a patient’s balance function, which often can indicate a hearing issue. The test involves an ENT doctor recording a patient’s eye movements as warm or cool water or air are introduced into each ear while in a darkened room. Eyes and ears work in coordination; therefore, the measurement of eye movements can be used to examine the balance system.
  • ESoG testing can be used to determine the amount of fluid in the ear, which may indicate hearing loss as well as other hearing and balance conditions.

After, your hearing test results will be thoroughly explained to you by one of our Bombay ENT doctors. If your hearing loss test determines that you will need further treatment, you can discuss treatment options for hearing loss with your doctor.

What are the advantages of undergoing a hearing test?
Hearing tests can help patients to determine the exact cause of hearing-related issues, as well as rule out any potentially serious conditions relating to ears, hearing and balance. Ear issues that go undiagnosed and untreated can escalate to become more serious health problems over time. Seeking advice from an ear, nose and throat doctor, such as Bombay ENT, at the first sign of a hearing problem can resolve the issue and prevent serious conditions from evolving.

If you believe you may be having hearing problems, the first step towards better hearing is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ear conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

3. DIZZINESS & VERTIGO TREATMENTS IN BOMBAY CITY

What is vertigo?
Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness that creates a sensation of movement. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and balancing issues. Vertigo can occur for a number of reasons, including:

  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) (change of position)
  • Viral infection causing inflammation
  • Head injury
  • Ear surgery
  • Meniere’s disease (buildup of fluid in inner ear)
  • Bed rest
  • Low blood flow in the brain
  • Acoustic neuroma (benign growth on inner-ear nerve)
  • Migraine headache
  • Stroke
  • Tumor

What should I do if I am experiencing vertigo?
If you are experiencing vertigo, it is important to consult an ear, nose and throat specialist to determine the cause of the condition. An ENT specialist can conduct hearing tests that may also be beneficial for those suffering from balance issues, including vertigo. ENT doctors can accurately diagnose any conditions that are causing vertigo and can offer treatment options.

What does vertigo treatment involve?
Treatment for vertigo may consist of one or more of the following, depending on your doctor’s recommendation:

  • Epley maneuver – Doctors help the patient perform a series of movements that train the body to quickly recover from vertigo. The procedure can be learned by the patient and done on his/her own. When benign parocysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the cause of vertigo, this can be an effective treatment for dizziness.
  • Prescription medication – Medication can ease the symptoms of vertigo, but will not correct the cause. They may reduce nausea or other problems short-term, but should not be used as a long-term solution.
  • Physical therapy – Doctors may try physical therapy as a method to relieve vertigo in patients. This is done during office visits and will vary depending on the patient’s specific condition.
  • Surgery – When more conservative treatment options are not successful or when the causes of vertigo warrant further action, doctors may recommend surgery. Surgery to correct vertigo involves inserting a bone plug into the inner ear to prevent dizziness from triggering. This surgery is successful in stopping the effects of vertigo in about 90% of patients who undergo the surgery.

If you are suffering from vertigo, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience with vertigo and dizziness treatment. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

4. EAR INFECTION TREATMENT

What is an ear infection?
An ear infection can occur in the middle, inner, or outer ear and is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. The most common type of ear infection occurs in the middle ear, which is the small pocket of air located directly behind your eardrum. Another type of ear infection, called an inner ear infection, occurs further inside the ear—just past the middle ear. Outer ear infections, sometimes called swimmer’s ear, affect the outside, visible portion of the ear.

Middle ear infections cause inflammation, fluid, and pain in the ear. They are categorized according to their severity:

Acute ear infection

  • Painful
  • Short
  • Usually clear up with no damage to the ear

Chronic ear infection

  • Painful
  • Long-term or recurring
  • Can cause permanent damage to the ear

What Causes Ear Infections?
Ear infections are caused when the eustachian tube, or passage between your middle ear and throat, are blocked and unable to keep germs from entering the middle ear. Ear infections are usually a secondary condition caused by one of the below conditions:

  • Allergies
  • Cold
  • Sinus infection
  • Swollen or infected adenoids
  • Smoking
  • Excessive mucus (runny nose)

What are symptoms of an ear infection?
Symptoms of middle and inner ear infection in adults may include:

  • Ear pain
  • Fluid draining from ear
  • Loss of hearing / difficulty hearing

Children suffering from an ear infection may exhibit the following symptoms, in addition to those listed above:

  • Ear pain when sleeping or lying down
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of balance
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Tugging on ear
  • Late response to noises or speaking

What are the risk factors for an ear infection?
There are some conditions that make a child or adult more prone to getting an ear infection. Some risk factors include:

  • Recent illness, especially cold or sinus-related illnesses
  • Climate changes
  • Altitude changes
  • Smoking or second-hand smoke
  • Use of bottles or pacifiers
  • Age (young children have less developed eustachian tubes)

When should I see a doctor for an ear infection?
Consult an ear, nose and throat expert with Bombay ENT as soon as possible if:

  • Any of the above listed conditions that persist for longer than 24 hours
  • Bloody discharge from the ear is present
  • Ear pain is severe
  • A child is suffering from irritation or restlessness following a cold
  • A child has symptoms listed above and is under 6 months of age

How does an ENT doctor diagnose an ear infection?
As soon as symptoms are present in an adult or child, consult with an Bombay ENT to evaluate your conditions and make an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will use a tool called an otoscope that can see deep inside your ear with a light and magnifying glass. Doctors can often detect redness, puss, drainage, or other abnormalities in the middle ear that point to an ear infection. To determine the severity of the condition, your Bombay ENT may also conduct sample fluid tests, computed tomography (CT) scans, or hearing tests.

How is an ear infection treated?
Ear infection treatment from Bombay ENT can range from conservative measures at home to prescription drugs or surgery, depending on the severity of the infection. Treatment options for ear infections include:

  • Cleaning the outer ear with a warm, wet cloth
  • Prescription decongestants or antibiotics, including ear drops and oral medication

More serious ear infections can lead to other health conditions, such as temporary hearing loss, and may need further treatment. It is important to see an ear, nose and throat specialist if you believe you are suffering from an acute or chronic ear infection to get a professional evaluation and treatment options. Doctors with Bombay ENT can provide a range of ear infection treatment options, including surgical procedures if needed.

Schedule Your Ear Infection Consultation Today!
If you are suffering from an ear infection, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ear-related conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

5. HEARING LOSS TREATMENTS IN BOMBAY CITY

How is hearing loss treated?
When a patient is diagnosed with conductive hearing loss or sensorineural hearing loss, the next step is to discuss treatment options. Depending on the individual and the type of hearing loss experienced, treatment options will vary. Some treatment options to discuss with your doctor may include:

  • Ear wax removal
  • Ear infection treatment
  • Hearing aid
  • Surgical repair of the eardrum
  • Cochlear implantation

When is treatment for hearing impairment needed?
While hearing loss may affect social interaction and other aspects of daily life, people are often unaware that they have a loss of hearing until others point it out to them. Signs and symptoms that warrant a visit to an ear, nose and throat specialist, such as Bombay ENT include:

  • Muffled or unusually loud speech
  • Inability to understand or decipher conversation
  • Sensation that one or both ears are plugged
  • Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears

People suffering from hearing loss may also constantly have a need for increased volume on radio or television.

What does hearing loss treatment involve?
Treatment of hearing loss depends in the cause of the problem.

  • Ear wax buildup can cause temporary hearing loss, and is treated by Bombay ENT doctors using ear wax removal or other conservative treatments.
  • Ear Infection may cause hearing loss when severe. In these cases, ear, nose and throat specialists can provide antibiotics, decongestants, or other ear infection treatment options to rid mucus from the ear.
  • Torn or perforated ear drums can cause hearing loss, and requires a surgical procedure known as tympanoplasty to repair the tear.
  • Congenital defect, injury or disease can also be a cause of more profound hearing loss, which sometimes can be treated with surgical insertion of a cochlear implant, which is a small device that helps a patient to hear sounds.

For more permanent types of hearing loss resulting from aging, or damage to the inner ear, use of a hearing aid may be helpful, although adjusting to them may take a few weeks. Individuals coping with severe hearing loss may also learn to pay careful attention to gestures and facial expressions, to read lips, or to use sign language in order to improve their communication skills.

If you are suffering from hearing loss, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience with hearing loss treatment. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

6 HEARING AID DEVICES IN BOMBAY CITY

What should I do if I can’t hear well?

If you find that you are having trouble hearing, the first step is to visit a physician, preferably an ear, nose and throat specialist. Many hearing problems can be corrected by a doctor. When hearing loss is accompanied with ear wax buildup, dizziness, drainage, or ear pain, it is especially important to see a specialist immediately, as this could indicate a serious health problem.

If you believe you may need a hearing aid, it is still vital to see an ear, nose and throat specialist to evaluate your condition and the degree of hearing loss. Screening tests that are performed by a hearing aid dealer may not be adequate. By going to a doctor, you will be able to undergo hearing tests to determine the exact type of hearing loss you are suffering from and rule out any other potentially serious health issues related to hearing loss.

Where can I purchase hearing aids?

Under federal regulation, hearing aids can only be sold after the buyer has undergone a physician evaluation, so you will need to visit a doctor, preferably an ear, nose and throat office, prior to purchasing the hearing aids. Adults may also sign a waiver to forego the exam, but it is not recommended.

An ear, nose and throat specialist, such as Bombay ENT can provide hearing aids that are custom-fit to your personal hearing needs and ear shape. Independent hearing aid dispensers (non-doctors) can also sell hearing aids, but these are generally not customized for your specific condition.

Are there different kinds of hearing aids?
Hearing aids vary in types, and can range in price according to the style and features. Different styles of hearing aids include:

  • Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids go over the ear and connect with a tubing and connect to custom-fit ear pieces.
  • Open fit receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) aids are a newer design of the BTE that fit over the ear but are nearly invisible.
  • In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids fill the outer portion of the ear, and fit inside the beginning portion of the ear canal.
  • Half-shell aids are even smaller than the RITE or ITE hearing aids, and are less visible to others.
  • Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) are the smallest and least visible aids, which are located entirely on the inside of the ear.

The best hearing aids for you will depend on your particular hearing loss condition as well as your preference. A doctor with Bombay ENT can help you to determine the best hearing aids for you.

Will I need a hearing aid in both ears?
If hearing loss is present in both ears, patients should use two hearing aids. It is difficult to hear out of only one ear, especially in a noisy environment.

What are the benefits of using hearing aids?

  • Non-surgical
  • Custom-fit and comfortable when purchased through an ENT specialist, such as Bombay ENT
  • Improved hearing almost immediately
  • No downtime or pain

If you are having difficulty hearing, the first step towards better hearing is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Bombay ENT have extensive experience providing hearing devices to patients with hearing loss. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at (212) 873-6168 to schedule an appointment today.

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