Ear Care

Question 1

What sections are the ear split up into?

Answer 1

outer
middle
inner

Question 2

What are the symptoms of ear wax in the ear?

Answer 2

Difficulty hearing
Pain in the ear
Tinnitus
Blocked feeling in the ear

Question 3

What are the treatment options for ear wax?

Answer 3

Eurax (olive oil)
Olive oil
Sodium Bicarbonate
Otex

If the treatment still persists after 3 days, there may need to be referral to the doctors.

Question 4

What is otitis media?

Answer 4

Is an infection of the middle ear

Symptoms: 
Earache
Hearing loss 
Pain 
Fever 
Tinnitus
Discharge

Question 5

When to refer ear problems?

Answer 5

Children under 12
If the problem has not resolved within 3 days 
Otitis media
Otitis externa - if symptoms persist after treatment 
Fever
Vomiting
Discharge
Severe deafness

Question 6

What is glue ear?

Answer 6

Is a type of chronic otitis media

It occurs following a build up of thick or sticky fluid in the middle ear behind the eardrum and causes hearing loss

It commonly affects children.

Question 7

What is otitis externa?

Answer 7

Is a bacterial or fungal infection that affects the ear canal. It occurs when too much water gets into the ear. (swimmers ear)

Question 8

What is the treatment for otitis externa?

Answer 8

Acetic acid e.g. ear calm spray

It should only be used in patients over the age of 12.

Question 9

Self-care tips for ear problems

Answer 9

Do not use cotton buds
Use ear defenders to reduce harmful noise levels
Use ear plugs when swimming