Ears & Hearing

We understand that hearing loss can have a significant impact on your daily life. That’s why Spokane Valley ENT evaluates your ears & hearing, we also work closely with you to find the best treatment option for your lifestyle. Our team of doctors and audiologists are up-to-date on the latest developments in hearing technologies.

Who Develops Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide, varying in severity from mild to profound. It can be caused by factors such as aging, exposure to loud noises, genetic predispositions, and certain illnesses. Caring for hearing disorders typically involves using hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices. Early detection and intervention are crucial, as untreated hearing loss can significantly impact communication, social interaction, and overall quality of life. Regular hearing check-ups, protecting ears from excessive noise, and seeking prompt medical attention for any signs of hearing issues are essential steps in managing hearing health.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is another common hearing issue, affecting millions globally. It can be caused by exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, age-related hearing loss, or other underlying health conditions. While there is no cure for tinnitus, various treatments can help manage its symptoms. These include sound therapy, hearing aids, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and certain medications. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause, when possible, can also alleviate tinnitus symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and protecting ears from loud noises are beneficial.

What Causes Frequent Ear Infections for Children?

Ear infections are particularly common in children but can also affect adults. These infections often result from bacteria or viruses causing inflammation and fluid buildup in the ear. In children, ear infections can be frequent due to their shorter and more horizontal Eustachian tubes, which can easily become blocked. Symptoms include ear pain, difficulty hearing, fluid drainage, and irritability. Preventative measures include practicing good hygiene, avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, and keeping up to date with vaccinations.

Balance, vertigo or dizziness makes you feel like you are looking over a high ledge

Balance, Vertigo and Dizziness

If you experience symptoms such as a feeling of imbalance, dizziness, lightheadedness, unsteadiness, giddiness, or vertigo (a turning or spinning sensation)—and these symptoms are becoming progressively worse—you could have an inner-ear problem or other balance disorder.

A man wearing custom silver ear protection plug in his ear.

Custom Ear Protection

If your job or hobby exposes you to loud noises, consider custom-fit earplugs. Musicians, band directors, disc jockeys, hunters or recreational shooters, and construction workers could all benefit from wearing ear protection. At Spokane Valley ENT, we can fit you with comfortable, custom-made earplugs tailored to you and your lifestyle.

A man holding his ear in pain from tinnitus.

Tinnitus or Ringing in the Ears

If you have persistent ringing in your ears, you may be experiencing tinnitus. While there is no cure for tinnitus, our physicians can determine the underlying cause and offer treatments or therapies to help manage it.

Myringotomy

Myringotomy is a treatment for otitis media, severe inflammation in the middle ear caused by infection. During the surgical procedure, a Spokane Valley ENT surgeon will create a tiny incision in the eardrum to relieve pressure caused by excessive buildup of fluid or to drain pus. Sometimes pressure equalization tubes will also be inserted to help with the pressure.

red-headed woman getting her Ear examined with a otoscope

Ear Infections

Ear infections are the most common reason for a visit to the doctor in the United States. It is mainly a problem for children, but can also affect adults. Symptoms of ear infections may include earache, decreased hearing, draining ears, fever and nighttime awakening.

Hearing Loss

We understand that hearing loss can have a significant impact on your daily life. That’s why Spokane Valley ENT not only evaluates the hearing loss, we also work closely with you to find the best treatment option for your lifestyle. Our team of doctors and audiologists is up-to-date on the very latest developments in hearing technologies.