Audiology/Otolaryngology/son's ear problems

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 2/17/2009


Question
my 12 year old son has had a 4 set of tubes in his ears, and recently his allergy doctor mentioned that he has a hole in one ear and a tube in the other.  The problem is...tonight at soccer practice, some child walked up behind him and clapped their right and left hand on both of his ears simultaneously, which I believe made some kind of suction in his ears.  He has been complaining of his ears ringing ever since.  He also acts like he can't hear and when we speak louder he complains of it being too loud.  I am worried about his ears...could you tell me if this warrants a visit to his ENT or just his peds doc.

I would greatly appreciate any advice you could give.

Answer
Dear CJ,
Your child has a history of middle ear problems and now he is complaining of ears ringing and diminished hearing after a trauma.  Yes, this warrants a visit to the ENT as soon as possible to have his hearing checked and make sure there is no permanent damage. I would also speak with his soccer coach to see what happened and to make sure it doesn't happen again.  I would also ask your ENT about protective ear plugs for your son to use so something like this doesn't happen again.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology  

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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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

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