Other Ear Problems

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for ear problems. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care by U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need care for ear problems, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Other ear problems refer to a broad category of conditions that affect the ear’s structure or function but are not limited to infections, tinnitus or hearing loss. These conditions may cause pain, disrupt balance or result in structural or functional impairments requiring specialized care.

Other ear problems can arise from various causes, including:

• Barotrauma: pressure changes during activities like flying or diving
• Structural abnormalities: congenital deformities or trauma to the ear
• Foreign objects: items lodged in the ear canal, common in children
• Skin conditions: dermatitis or eczema in the ear canal
• Blocked Eustachian tubes: fluid buildup due to swollen or obstructed tubes
• Injuries: from loud noises, falls or direct impacts to the ear, causing eardrum rupture or damage to inner ear bones
• Balance disorders: inner ear dysfunction disrupting equilibrium

The symptoms of other ear problems vary depending on the condition and may include:

• Persistent or sharp ear pain
• Dizziness or difficulty maintaining balance
• Muffled hearing or a sensation of fullness in the ear
• Itching, redness or irritation in the ear canal
• Fluid drainage or foul odor from the ear

To diagnose other ear problems, our specialists use a range of diagnostic tools, including:

• Otoscopy: visual examination of the ear canal and eardrum
• Imaging: computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to assess structural abnormalities or trauma
• Balance Tests: evaluations such as the Dix-Hallpike test for vertigo or posturography for equilibrium issues
• Foreign object removal: careful inspection and removal of objects in the ear

Treatment for other ear problems is tailored to the specific condition and may include:

• Medications: topical or oral antibiotics, antifungals or corticosteroids to address infections or inflammation
• Pressure equalization techniques: for barotrauma, techniques like yawning, swallowing or using specialized devices
• Surgical intervention: procedures to correct structural abnormalities or repair damage
• Balance therapy: vestibular rehabilitation for balance disorders
• Foreign object removal: safe and effective extraction of objects from the ear canal