Frequently Asked Questions About Cholesteatoma
We often take senses like sight and hearing for granted until a problem develops. Cholesteatoma is a rare but problematic condition in which an abnormal skin growth or cyst develops behind the eardrum.
How Does Cholesteatoma Develop?
A growth like a cholesteatoma often begins as a buildup of extra earwax and skin cells behind the eardrum. Over time, this growth hardens and makes it difficult for fluid to drain in and around the eardrum. This can cause issues with hearing, ear infections, and in extreme cases, hearing loss. If you notice pain in and around the ear or issues with balance, see your ENT doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause of your discomfort.
What Symptoms Should I Look For?
The buildup of material that can block the ear canal does take time, so it may seem that symptoms of cholesteatoma come on rather suddenly. Symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- A sense of the ears being full
- Earache or pain in the ear and along the jawline
- Ear infections
- Drainage, often accompanied by a bad smell
- Hearing loss
What Causes Cholesteatoma?
A significant contributing factor to cholesteatoma and its development is poor ventilation of the middle ear space. Otherwise known as eustachian tube dysfunction, it develops as excess ear wax, skin cells, and other debris get trapped in the inner ear, creating pressure around the eardrum. Other factors that could cause its development include seasonal allergies, upper respiratory infections, and chronic sinusitis. Some types of cholesteatoma are genetic, and malformations are present at birth that contribute to its development over time.
Are There Dangers Associated With Cholesteatoma?
Failing to undergo proper treatment will result in recurring ear infections, drainage, and eventually, hearing loss. A cholesteatoma growth can also erode the delicate bone tissues in the inner ear, paving the way for more serious infections such as meningitis and brain abscess. These are the most serious conditions that can result in death if not properly treated.
What Are My Treatment Options?
This condition can be managed once it is discovered, but the removal of hardened tissue is usually accomplished with cholesteatoma surgery. An ENT, an abnormal ear growth doctor, can prescribe medication to reduce swelling and infection as well as manage drainage as you contemplate surgical removal. The primary goal of surgery is to remove all obstructions inside the ear and dry out the ear canal, helping to restore proper, pain-free hearing.
Questions to ask your ENT
Once you make an appointment for assessment of your ear, consider asking the following questions of your ENT to give you better peace of mind as you craft your treatment plan:
- What medications can I take to stop drainage?
- How can I manage pain before, during and after my procedure?
- Will I be doing inpatient or outpatient surgery?
- How long is recovery?
- Will I need a planned second surgery to manage regrowth?
- Will this affect my hearing long-term?
Getting the answers that you need will be an essential part of your healing process. At Westside Head and Neck Clinics, we are ready to meet with you to craft a care plan that works for you. Courteous and professional staff, knowledgeable doctors, and state of the art technology ensure that your health concerns are addressed. Make your appointment today, and see how we can improve your health and your hearing. Visit https://www.westsidehn.com/ for more information.