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Audiology/Otolaryngology/Ringing in ear after ear infection

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Question
Hi

I had an outer ear infection 8 weeks ago. First came an ear ache and then when that subsided there was this high pitched ringing. I took ear drops to treat it and the sound quietened down but it's remained for the past 8 weeks since the infection has gone.

Is it normal for ears to ring after an outer ear infection? Does it usually go and how long does it take?

Answer
Hi Johannes,
Unfortunately, what you are experiencing is not unusual.  Depending on the extent of the infection and if it damaged any other parts of the ear, it is possible that the ringing may never subside.

I suggest you return to your ENT and have your hearing evaluated by an Audiologist.  If there is no other outstanding reason for the tinnitus (ringing in the ear), then there are several options for treatment.  I am referring you to this site: www.ata.org.  There is a wealth of information there on this topic.

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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