Affiliates: Auricle Hearing Clinic & Sleep Specialists of Alberta

Chronic Ear Disease

Ear

Chronic Ear Disease Understanding Symptoms Causes and Treatment

Chronic ear disease refers to long lasting conditions that affect the ear and cause ongoing symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, or drainage. These conditions often develop as a result of repeated infections, inflammation, or injury to the ear and may require ongoing medical care.

If you are concerned about chronic ear disease, the ear nose and throat specialists at ENT Specialists of Alberta provide expert evaluation and treatment for patients across Alberta.

Symptoms of Chronic Ear Disease

Individuals with chronic ear disease may experience a range of symptoms that persist or return over time. Common symptoms include hearing loss, ear pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or fluid draining from the ear.

If you have started treatment for an ear condition and notice new or worsening symptoms such as ringing in the ears, dizziness, or foul smelling discharge, it is important to seek follow up care. Ongoing symptoms that do not improve with initial treatment should also be reassessed by a specialist.

Types of Chronic Ear Disease

There are several types of chronic ear conditions that commonly affect patients:

  • Chronic otitis media:  Also known as a chronic ear infection, this condition is often caused by persistent fluid buildup or swelling in the eustachian tube. The eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the throat and helps maintain balanced air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. When infections or inflammation block this tube, proper drainage is prevented, leading to ongoing infection and discomfort.
  • Cholesteatoma: A cholesteatoma is an abnormal growth of skin cells that can form behind the eardrum. It is often linked to repeated ear infections, damage to the eardrum, or pressure problems in the middle ear. If left untreated, a cholesteatoma can cause dizziness, permanent hearing loss, or weakness of the facial muscles.

At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our team is dedicated to diagnosing and managing chronic ear conditions with personalized care plans designed to protect hearing and improve long term ear health.

Treating Chronic Ear Disease

At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our ear nose and throat providers are committed to helping patients across Alberta find the most effective treatment for chronic ear disease. The recommended course of care depends on the underlying condition causing your symptoms.

For chronic ear infections, treatment may include antibiotics or the placement of ear tubes. During a procedure called myringotomy, a small opening is made in the eardrum to allow trapped fluid to drain. A tiny tube may then be placed to improve ventilation in the middle ear and help prevent fluid from building up again.

If a cholesteatoma is diagnosed, surgical removal is required. During this procedure, which can take several hours, the surgeon carefully removes the cholesteatoma to prevent further damage to the ear and surrounding structures.

Our team at ENT Specialists of Alberta provides comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and follow up care to help protect your hearing and improve long term ear health

Your Health is Our Priority

Discover comprehensive ENT care with our network of experienced providers across multiple convenient locations. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, we’re here for all your ear, nose, and throat needs.

Schedule Appointment