50+ Lifestyles

Middle Ear Problems, Tubes and Hearing Loss

By Dr. Molly Parker
Audiolologist and Owner
Parker Audiolology, P.C.

Colds are an inevitable problem during the fall and winter seasons. In most cases, middle ear fluid, or “ear congestion” lasts a few days during a cold virus and then dissipates. However, when the middle fluid causes pain,
hearing loss or lasts longer than a month, it is time to follow up with your physician.

Middle ear congestion can sometimes mimic other types of hearing losses and other medical conditions such as TMJ (Temporal Mandibular Joint Pain). Tympanometry and a hearing test can provide your physician clues as to the cause and severity of your symptoms.

In some cases, tubes are recommended; this treatment is obtained from an ear, nose and throat specialist. Tubes help to ventilate the middle ear where the fluid is located. After placement tubes can tell the patient when there is infection present so that treatment can be started.

If you have questions whether you have “ear congestion” or if your hearing may be affected by other causes, a hearing test can help your physician know what your next step needs to be.

A Personal Note….

As the holiday season approaches, gatherings with family and friends help us to focus on our daily blessings. Shopping, preparing and sharing our time with others reminds us of the importance of our connections to friends and family.Perhaps you know a friend or family member who is
struggling with untreated hearing loss. Would you be willing to encourage them to get hearing help?

It takes time to learn to hear again. Your hearing journey begins with a hearing test and a plan. Start hearing better BEFORE holiday season by caring enough to help someone you know hear more clearly. Parker Audiology offers a staff of audiologists ready to answer your questions about hearing loss, and we believe in communicating findings with your physician.

Dr. Molly Parker has been practicing Audiology in the Quad Cities for 17 years. She is the owner of Parker Audiology, PC. Call Dr. Alison Soto, Dr. Ali Hunt or Dr. Molly Parker today for an appointment at (563) 265-8003.