Audiology/Otolaryngology/Ear ache

Advertisement


Question
I have had an earache for several weeks. I don't have an infection! Been to my doctor with no answers, went to the dentist where they thought I needed a root canal to help my ear and still I have the pain like a subtle earache!
It is getting very annoying and I am very cranky. Went to ENT specialist, thought my ear was clear but thought I had referred ear pain due to acid reflux disorder. Could this be the cause-I can't believe it, or do you have any other words of wisdom!
Help,
Arlene

Answer
Hi Arlene,
Do you have any other symptoms? Did an audiologist evaluate your hearing? Do you have any tingling in the face? If yes, it's possible you may have an inflammation of any of the facial nerves and you may want to consult a neurologist. Did the dentist check you for temporal-mandibular joint disease? Do you grind your teeth at night? If yes, this too can cause ear pain and a simple bite guard could help. And, yes, there is a possible link between GERD and ear pain.  Possibly if you get the GERD under control, the ear pain will also disappear.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.