While hearing loss is one of the best-known ear conditions, many others affect adults each year. Some of these can impact hearing and comfort, and others may have long-term effects. Learn more about some common conditions below and what you can do about them.

What Ear Conditions Might You Experience?

1. Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the medical term for any persistent noise that doesn’t come from an external source. Commonly described as a ringing ear, it can also be experienced as a buzzing, hissing, whooshing, or white noise sound. Tinnitus affects nearly 10% of adults nationwide, making it one of the most widespread ear conditions.

Often the result of brief exposure to loud noises, such as concerts or heavy machinery, many who experience tinnitus can expect it to go away within a few minutes or hours. However, after repeated exposure, the condition can become permanent, particularly in older adults. While the condition can’t be cured, you can alleviate its effects through talking therapy or medication.

2. Ear Congestion

Ear congestion is marked by a feeling of pressure in the ear, leading to constant popping similar to that experienced on airplanes or at high altitudes. This condition occurs when a blockage builds up in the organs that connect the inner ear to the throat and nasal cavity.

You may experience this issue if you have a condition that leads to sinus congestion, such as a cold, the flu, or allergies. You can usually find relief by using nasal decongestants and gently blowing the nose. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier when sleeping to keep the nose's interior moist and relaxed can also help.

3.  Ménière’s Disease

Ménière's disease is a long-term condition in which excess fluid builds up in the inner ear. This condition usually arises in adults between the ages of 40 to 60, causing dizziness, feelings of sickness, buzzing or ringing in the ears, or vertigo severe enough to interfere with balance.

While there's currently no cure for Ménière's disease, dizziness can be treated with motion sickness or anti-nausea medications. Additionally, reducing fluid can limit the amount of liquid in the inner ear, and hearing aids may be used to restore impeded hearing.

For help diagnosing and treating these and other ear conditions, turn to County Hearing and Balance in Madison. For more than 40 years, these licensed audiologists have provided reliable hearing care to residents throughout southeastern and shoreline, CT. They offer an extensive selection of hearing devices from leading manufacturers to help patients adjust to a wide range of conditions. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call them at (203) 245-1950 to schedule an appointment.