--> EAR STRUCTURE

EAR
The human ear is the anatomical structure responsible for hearing and balance. The ear consists of three parts: the outer, middle, and inner ears.

Outer ear
The outer ear collects sounds from the environment and funnels them through the auditory system. The outer ear is composed of three parts, the pinna (or auricle), the external auditory canal (or external auditory meatus), and the tympanic membrane (or eardrum).

Pinna
The two flap-like structures on either side of the head commonly called ears are actually the pinnas of the outer ear. Pinnas are skin-covered cartilage, not bone, and are therefore flexible. The lowest portion of the pinna is called the lobe or lobule and is the most likely site for earrings. The pinnas of most humans cannot move, but these structures are very mobile in other mammals, such as cats and dogs.

External auditory canal
The external auditory canal is a passageway in the temporal lobe of the skull that begins at the ear and extends inward and slightly upwards. In the adult human it is lined with skin and hairs and is approximately 1 in (2.5 cm) long.
The outer one-third portion of the canal is lined with a membrane containing ceruminous (ear wax producing) cells, and hair cells. The purpose of the cerumen and hairs is to protect the eardrum (which lies at the end of the canal) by trapping dirt and foreign bodies and keeping The anatomy of the human ear. In most individuals, cleaning of the external auditory canal (with Q-tips for example) is not needed. The inner two-thirds of the external auditory canal contains no glands or hair cells.

Tympanic membrane/eardrum
The human tympanic membrane or eardrum is a thin, concave membrane stretched across the inner end of the external auditory canal much like the skin covering the top of a drum. The eardrum marks the border between the outer ear and middle ear. The eardrum serves as a transmitter of sound by vibrating in response to sounds traveling down the external auditory canal, and beginning sound conduction in the
middle ear.
In the adult human, the tympanic membrane has a total area of approximately 63 sq mm, and consists of three layers which contribute to the membrane's ability to vibrate while maintaining a protective thickness. The middle point of the tympanic membrane (the umbo) is attached to the stirrup, the first of three bones contained within the middle ear.

Middle ear
The middle ear transmits sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. The middle ear consists of an oval, air-filled space approximately 2 cubic cm in volume. The middle ear can be thought of as a room, the outer wall of which contains the tympanic membrane. The back wall, separating the middle ear from the inner ear, has two windows, the oval window and the round window. There is a long hallway leading away from the side wall of the room, known as the eustachian tube. The brain lies above the room and the jugular vein lies below. The middle ear is lined entirely with mucous membrane (similar to the nose) and is surrounded by the bones of the skull.

Eustachian tube
The eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This tube is normally closed, opening only as a result of muscle movement during yawning, sneezing, or swallowing. The eustachian tube allows for air pressure equalization, permitting the air pressure in the middle ear to match the air pressure in the outer ear. The most noticeable example of eustachian tube function occurs when there is a quick change in altitude, such as when a plane takes off. Prior to takeoff, the pressure in the outer ear is equal to the pressure in the middle ear. When the plane gains altitude, the air pressure in the outer ear decreases, while the pressure in the middle ear remains the same, causing the ear to feel "plugged." In response to this the ear may "pop." The popping sensation is actually the quick opening and closing of the eustachian tube, and the equalization of pressure between the outer and middle ear.

Bones/ossicles and muscles
Three tiny bones (the ossicles) in the middle ear form a chain which conducts sound waves from the tympanic membrane (outer ear) to the oval window (inner ear). The three bones are the hammer (malleus), the anvil (incus), and the stirrup (stapes). These bones are connected and move as a link chain might, causing pressure at the oval window and the transmission of energy from the middle ear to the inner ear. Sound waves cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate, which sets up vibrations in the ossicles, which amplify the sounds and transmits them to the inner ear via the oval windows.
In addition to bones, the middle ear houses the two muscles, the stapedius and the tensor tympani, which respond reflexively, that is, without conscious control.

Inner ear
The inner ear is responsible for interpreting and transmitting sound (auditory) sensations and balance (vestibular) sensations to the brain. The inner ear is small (about the size of a pea) and complex in shape, where its series of winding interconnected chambers, has been compared to (and called) a labyrinth. The main components of the inner ear are the vestibule, semicircular canals, and the cochlea.

Vestibule
The vestibule, a round open space which accesses various passageways, is the central structure within the inner ear. The outer wall of the vestibule contains the oval and round windows (which are the connection sites between the middle and inner ear). Internally, the vestibule contains two membranous sacs, the utricle and the saccule, which are lined with tiny hair cells and attached to nerve fibers, and serve as the vestibular (balance/equilibrium) sense organs.

Semicircular canals
Attached to the utricle within the vestibular portion of the inner ear are three loop-shaped, fluid filled tubes called the semicircular canals. The semicircular canals are named according to their location ("lateral," "superior," and "posterior") and are arranged perpendicular to each other, like the floor and two corner walls of a box. The semicircular canals are a key part of the vestibular system and allow for maintenance of balance when the head or body rotates.

Cochlea
The cochlea is the site of the sense organs for hearing. The cochlea consists of a bony, snail-like shell that contains three separate fluid-filled ducts or canals. The upper canal, the scala vestibuli, begins at the oval window, while the lower canal, the scala tympani, begins at the round window. Between the two canals lies the third canal, the scala media. The scala media is separated from the scala vestibuli by Reissner's membrane and from the scala tympani by the basilar membrane. The scala media contains the organ of Corti, (named after the nineteenth century anatomist who first described it).
The organ of Corti lies along the entire length of the basilar membrane. The organ contains hair cells and is the site of the conversion of sound waves into nerve impulses, which are sent to the brain, for auditory interpretation along cranial nerve VIII, also known as the auditory nerve.

IMPORTANT NOTICE.....

IMPORTANT NOTICE:This information is solely for informational purposes.IT IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Niether author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from treatment,exercise,dietary modification,action or application of medication,resulting from following the information in this information.Publication of this information does'nt constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does'nt replace the advice of physician.The reader must seek the advice of physician.

.......progress of this Blog........

I am constantly updating this blog to provide possible information for the dearest viewer's.......................on the Ear Infection's.

--> SWIMMER'S EAR

?..to care for Swimmer's Ear..

When water gets in the ear, it can bring bacteria or a fungus with it and cause an infection resulting in swimmer's ear - an infection of the outer ear. While swimmer's ear usually clears itself up after a few days, here are some ways to treat any discomfort.

You'll Need:

An Ear Droppers
Acetaminophen
White Vinegar
Heating pads
Aspirins
Rubbing Alcohol
Earplugs
Ibuprofen
Warm Compresses

Step One
To help clear up a mild infection, use a mixture of equal parts isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar in the ear canal after swimming or showering. Tip your head to one side so the affected ear faces the ceiling, place a few drops of the mixture in your ear using a a dropper, then tip your head the other way to let the mixture drain out.

Step Two
Take aspirin (for adults), ibuprofen or acetaminophen every 4 to 6 hours for any symptoms of a mild infection, such as discomfort or fever.

Step Three
Apply mild heat, using a hot water bottle or a heating pad, to help reduce any pain.

Step Four
Contact your doctor if your condition doesn't improve in 24 hours, the glands in your neck become swollen, your ears begin to drain a milky fluid, or you experience dizziness or ringing in your ears.

Tips & Warnings:
Symptoms include itching, discomfort and swelling of the outer ear canal, which is usually tender to the touch.
During the healing process, keep water out of your ears. Clean them by wrapping your finger in a soft cloth and gently wiping the outer ear area. Avoid using instruments or cotton swabs to remove earwax.
Don't put any drops in your ear if you suspect a perforated eardrum.
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

some usefull feed back:
Pain - Swimmer's ear is extremely painful for children. Keep Advil in the house and administer every 6 hours

Ear plugs - The ear plugs you buy for swimming usually don't work well. Hearo ear plugs work great, but they absorb water, so change them often. Never use a wet pair of ear plugs.

Portable Ear Dryer - I use a device called the Sahara DryEar. It's a rechargeable ear dryer and it's awesome. I found it online at www.dryear.net.After showers, surfing, swimming or any time my ears get wet, I always use this thing. I used to have problems with my ears all the time, but I haven't had a problem in over a year. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Try this ear dryer though, it's awesome.

Prevention - To prevent swimmer's ear, make sure you rinse shampoo and conditioner from the ear area completely. Swimmers get used to rushing when they shower and dress, and the bacteria that grows in soap scum and leftover hair care products is more likely to be the swimmer's ear culprit than the chlorine.During a bout of swimmer's ear, our coach has us kick the whole workout to avoid irritation of the infected area. If you have an elevated temperature, see a doctor.

When it gets bad - I suffer from swimmer's ear all the time, and when it gets to the advanced stage (were you can't sleep from the agony), I put a cloth with very hot water on my ear and then blow a hair dryer (set on warm) onto the cloth.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:This information is solely for informational purposes.IT IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Niether author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from treatment,exercise,dietary modification,action or application of medication,resulting from following the information in this information.Publication of this information does'nt constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does'nt replace the advice of physician.The reader must seek the advice of physician.

--> ?..to get Water Out of Your Ear.

Water can enter your ears while you are swimming or taking a bath. If you allow water to remain in your ears for a long time, it can cause infection, damage the eardrums and result in pain. Here's how to get water out of your ear.

Step One
Insert one side of a cotton swab in the affected ear. It will immediately start absorbing the water. Use the other side of the ear bud if you still feel water inside the ear. Repeat the process with a new cotton swab until you are sure all water has been absorbed.

Step Two
Pour a few drops of water into a dropper. Turn the head so the affected ear is facing up. Drop some water from the dropper into your affected ear. Wait two or three seconds, then flip your head quickly so the affected ear now faces the ground. Repeat the process until all the water has drained out of your ear.

Step Three
Prepare a mixture of half alcohol and half vinegar. Put two or three drops of this mixture into the affected ear. The mixture should dry up the water in a few minutes.

Step Four
Sleep with the affected ear facing the surface of your pillow. After a few minutes, the force of gravity may pull the water out.

Step Five
Dry up the water in your ear using a hair dryer on a low setting. Take care not to hold the hair dryer too close or to burn yourself.

Step Six
Use over-the-counter antiseptic eardrops. Shake two or three drops into your ear, then turn your head so the affected ear is facing downward. The water should come out with the eardrops.

Step Seven
Consult your doctor if water remains in your ear no matter what you try on your own.

--> ?..to Treat an Ear Infection in a Child.

Ear infections are a common condition for children. Recurrent ear infections require extensive attention to avoid the potential development of benign tumors and permanent hearing loss. Here's how to deal with your child's next ear infection.

You'll Need
Towel
Dropper
Olive oil
Prescription medication
Pain relief medicine
Warm water.

Step One
Soak a towel in warm water, then fold it. Test it against your forehead to be sure it is not too hot.

Step Two
Use the towel as a warm compress on the child's ears. This will temporarily relieve the child's pain. Apply the compress while the child is sitting upright, so that no excess water gets into his or her ears.

Step Three
Warm a small amount of olive oil and fill a dropper with it. Drop some on your wrist to test that it is not too hot.

Step Four
Put just a few drops of the olive oil in the child's ears. This method can provide temporary relief, but should not be used as a long-term treatment.

Step Five
Administer some children's pain relief medicine. Only give the recommended amount on the bottle. Never exceed a dosage, which could cause dangerous side effects and possibly even organ damage.

Step Six
Take your child to the doctor. After a quick ear examination, the doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic. The most common antibiotic given for ear infections is Amoxicillin. This medicine is a liquid which is usually taken orally 1 to 3 times daily for a week.

Tips & Warnings:
Ear infections are not contagious.
Always follow the doctor's orders for giving a child any type of prescription medication. If orders are not followed exactly, the ear infection could return.
Never put anything near or inside an ear that is releasing a fluid.
An ear infection will often treat itself, but only after about a week and a half. Antibiotics will treat a child's ear infection faster and ensure that it does not spread to other parts of the inner ear.

--> ?..to Prevent Ear Infections With Ear Candles

Ear candling, also known as ear coning, is an alternative medicine technique meant to clean the ear and improve overall health. Because ear candles are believed to bolster the immune system and improve the flow of lymph, they are sometimes used to treat infections and boost the immune system. Skeptics question the efficacy of ear candling; but proponents speak highly of its value.

Ear Candling was an ancient remedy used by the Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks and the Hopi Indians of North America and is now widely used in many countries throughout the modern world. Each candle is still carefully made by hand from the traditional recipe. Locally administered heat stimulates the energy points and reflex zones.
The Indians of North America have long understood the problems associated with this build-up in the ears and developed a soft wax tube that they inserted in each ear in turn. A heat vacuum is created, drawing material from the ear up into the candle, where it is then evaporated in the flame. Ear candles are used to cleanse and harmonise the different energy fields of the individual (the aura) in preparation for the state of trance and to drive out negative energies.
Ear candling is a clearing therapy, relaxing and pleasant to receive. The process involves the use of a hollow candle with the narrow end held gently onto the edge of the ear. The flame creates a relative vacuum in the ear which may help in drawing out toxins.
Ear Candling is non-invasive and gentle and is recommended for both children and adults.

Note: In case of ear infection or suspected ear infection it is recommended that medical advice be sought. Once infection has been medically treated and is clear than ear candling can be performed.

DO NOT use Ear Candles if you have:
A perforated ear drum.

Tympanotomy tube implants.

Any kind of inflammation in your ear.

Skin Diseases in and around the ear.

Allergic reactions to the ingredients in the form of spontaneous itchiness. having occasionally occured.

If you are pregnant.

On infants.

You'll Need
Computer with Internet access
Ear candles

Follow these steps to learn how to prevent ear infections with ear candles.

Step One
Use ear candles to prevent future ear infections or vacuum out the debris of previous infections. Don't use ear candles to treat current ear infections.

Step Two
See your doctor right away if you suspect that you or your child has an ear infection.

Step Three
Cure your ear infection with conventional medicine like antibiotic ear drops. Once the cure is complete, consider taking measures to prevent future infections. Ear candling may be the cornerstone of your prophylactic measures.

Step Four
Consider using ear candles to prevent other types of infections. Proponents of ear candling consider it a cleansing practice with far-reaching powers. For instance, many people believe it can bolster the immune system or increase the flow of lymph.

Step Five
Learn more about the tradition of ear candling at the "Atlantis Rising" Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings
Ear candles tend to be very inexpensive.

Members of the conventional medical community may not embrace the practice of ear candling, even though the tradition has survived centuries.

Don't use ear candles if you have any injury to the eardrum or the ear canal.

Visit an ER or doctor immediately if you feel numbness in your extremities.

Keep in mind that using ear candles requires more than one person. Handling your own candle can mean disaster. Open flames near your face can be very dangerous.

Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

--> ?.....to top Earache and Ear Infection

Earache and ear infection affects all ages in the population and can be caused by many reasons, clogged Eustachian tubes, colds, congestion, infection. This article will show you ways to reduce the pain from earaches and also how to reduce the risk of getting ear infections.

You'll Need:
Ear drops
Acetaminophen
Antibiotics
baby oil
mineral oil
garlic
mullein oils.

Step One:
Try using baby oil or mineral oil in a pan of body temperature water. Place two drops of the solution into the ear with the earache. This will help to reduce the pain.

Step Two:
One way to test if the ear infection is in the outer ear (otitis externa) or the inner ear (otitis media) grab the fleshy part of the ear lobe and wiggle it about. if you can move the ear without feeling any pain then it is probably infection in the middle ear. I f moving the ear lobe causes pain then it is an infection in the outer ear canal.

Step Three
yawning can also help reduce the ache since this movement moves the muscle that opens the Eustachian tube. Chewing gum or sucking on candies have the same effect.

Step Four
Herbal remedies can help reduce the ache. Take garlic or mullein oils for ear infections. They have antimicrobial and antibiotic properties. The oils will pass the eardrum and help reduce further infections. Apply 2 drops into the affected ear then cover the ear with a piece of cotton wool. Repeat the process every 6 hours using new cotton with each application.

Step Five
Take decongesgant medication to help decrease the pressure in the sinuses and the ear canal.

Step Six
Swimmer's ear is also a common problem. The ear becomes itchy at first and left untreated it can become a full-blown infection with excruciating pain. You must see a doctor immediately since you will need antibiotics to cure the infection.

Step Seven
Try these methods for soothing away the pain from the earache. Use heat to keep the ear warm like using a heat pad or warm water bottle covered with a towel.

Step Eight
To help prevent swimmer's ear try plugging the ears before swimming or showering. You can purchase was or silicone ear plugs form local drugstores.

Step Nine
To prevent getting swimmer's ear you can try using home made solutions to kill the germs and dry out the ear canal. Rubbing alcohol is helpful. Place th ehead on a falt surface with the infected ear facing upwards. pull the ear upward and downward to straighten the canal. Then squeeze a few drop of the rubbing alcohol in the ear canal. Wiggle the eat to get the alcohol to the bottom of the canal. Then tilt the head to the other side to allow the alcohol drain out.

--> Prevention of common Ear infection without occuring.

Introduction
Ear candling, also known as ear coning, is an alternative medicine technique meant to clean the ear and improve overall health. Because ear candles are believed to bolster the immune system and improve the flow of lymph, they are sometimes used to treat infections and boost the immune system. Skeptics question the efficacy of ear candling; but proponents speak highly of its value. Follow these steps to learn how to prevent ear infections with ear candles.

Things You'll Need
Computer with Internet access
Ear candles

Step One
Use ear candles to prevent future ear infections or vacuum out the debris of previous infections. Don't use ear candles to treat current ear infections.

Step Two
See your doctor right away if you suspect that you or your child has an ear infection.

Step Three
Cure your ear infection with conventional medicine like antibiotic ear drops. Once the cure is complete, consider taking measures to prevent future infections. Ear candling may be the cornerstone of your prophylactic measures.

Step Four
Consider using ear candles to prevent other types of infections. Proponents of ear candling consider it a cleansing practice with far-reaching powers. For instance, many people believe it can bolster the immune system or increase the flow of lymph.

Learn more about the tradition of ear candling on the Internet.

Tips & Warnings:

Ear candles tend to be very inexpensive.

Members of the conventional medical community may not embrace the practice of ear candling, even though the tradition has survived centuries.

Don't use ear candles if you have any injury to the eardrum or the ear canal.

Visit an ER or doctor immediately if you feel numbness in your extremities.

Keep in mind that using ear candles requires more than one person. Handling your own candle can mean disaster. Open flames near your face can be very dangerous.

Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

Resources: Data searched from books and websites.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:This information is solely for informational purposes.IT IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Niether author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from treatment,exercise,dietary modification,action or application of medication,resulting from following the information in this information.Publication of this information does'nt constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does'nt replace the advice of physician.The reader must seek the advice of physician.

-->Treatment for Sinusitis

1. Specific treatment for sinusitis will be determined by your child's physician based on:
Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the infection
Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the infection
Your opinion or preference
2. Treatment of sinusitis may include the following:
Antibiotics, as determined by your child's physician
Acetaminophen (for pain or discomfort)
A decongestant (i.e., pseudoephedrine [Sudafed®]) and/or mucus thinner (i.e., guaifenesin [Robitussin®])
Cool humidifier in your child's room
Nasal spray to reduce inflammation. Antihistamines do not help the symptoms of sinusitis unless an allergy is involved.
In children with chronic sinus infections, surgery may be needed. Surgical procedures for sinusitis include:
Adenoidectomy - the adenoids often contribute to sinus infection by blocking flow of secretions out of the nose and carrying bacteria that lead to sinusitis.
Sinus irrigation.
Endoscopic sinus surgery.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:This information is solely for informational purposes.IT IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Niether author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from treatment,exercise,dietary modification,action or application of medication,resulting from following the information in this information.Publication of this information does'nt constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does'nt replace the advice of physician.The reader must seek the advice of physician.

--> Diagnosis of Sinusitis

The diagnosis of sinusitis is made by taking a history and examining your child. Some additional tests may be ordered for children who have difficulty with sinusitis.
The tests may include:
Allergy testing – is generally done in the Asthma and Allergy Clinic.
Otolaryngology Clinic at Children's Hospital
Computerized tomography (also called CT or CAT scan) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body.
A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, and can let your pediatric otolaryngologist see the "inside" of the sinuses and nose to determine if there are specific causes for your child's sinusitis.
Nasal endoscopy – your child's pediatric otolaryngologist has special, very small-lighted scopes which allow him to examine the inside of your child's nose and sinuses in the clinic.
Cultures from the sinuses - laboratory tests that involve the growing of bacteria or other microorganisms to aid in diagnosis.
Immune testing – occasionally your doctor may order test to make sure that your child's immune system is functioning adequately and not contributing to the frequent sinus infections.
Testing for cystic fibrosis – although cystic fibrosis is rare, if your child is having frequent sinus infections your doctor may wish to test for this rare disease to make sure that it is not contributing to the sinusitis.
Sinus x-rays - diagnostic test uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. (X-rays are not typically used, but may help assist in the diagnosis.)

--> Symptoms of Sinusitis

The symptoms of sinusitis are somewhat different in children than adults and depend on the age of the child. The following are the most common symptoms of sinusitis.

Younger children:
Runny nose that lasts longer than seven to 10 days - The discharge is usually thick green or yellow, but can be clear. Since viral infections and bacterial infections of the sinuses often look the same and viral infections are more common, it is customary not to treat a runny nose in most children unless it has persisted longer that 7 to 10 days.

Viral infections will resolve on their own. Antibiotics will not help viral infections get better quicker.
Nighttime cough
Occasional daytime cough
Bad breath
Swelling around the eyes
Usually no headaches younger than 5 years of age
Adolescents and teenagers:
Runny nose or cold symptoms lasting longer than seven to 10 days
Drip in the throat from the nose
Headaches
Facial discomfort
Bad breath
Cough
fever
Sore throat
Swelling around the eye, often worse in the morning
The symptoms of sinusitis may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.

--> Ear Infection: Sinus & Hay Fever.

Sinus Infection & Hay Fever

It's distressing enough to deal with the symptoms of hay fever, but many people don't realise that the resulting irritation and weakened immune system can also leave them more susceptible to a secondary infection.
Inflamed tissues in the ears nose and throat can create a haven for bacterial infections to thrive and the combination of a bacterial infection alongside hay fever can leave you feeling really miserable and overwhelmed with a multitude of painful symptoms.

Treating Hay FeverThe best way to prevent a bacterial infection that occurs as a complication of hay fever is to prevent hay fever from occurring in the first place. This means adopting a prevention plan, which will likely include strategies such as monitoring the pollen count, avoiding times of the day when the pollen count is high and avoiding any other specific triggers you might have.
Immunotherapy based treatments can also help you to handle your hay fever and strengthen your immune system, so that your susceptibility to hay fever is reduced. In turn, this will also help to prevent a secondary infection. Topical and oral medications can alleviate hay fever symptoms by reducing irritation in the eyes, nose and throat, which helps to reduce the chances of a bacterial infection.

Ear infections can result from hay fever, especially when symptoms are chronic. The ear canal can become inflamed from swelling that occurs as a symptom of hay fever. The swelling may then interfere with drainage in the ear. If bacterial discharge blocks the ear, infection can occur. Children are particularly susceptible to ear infections, so a child who has hay fever must take extra care to treat the hay fever symptoms to prevent them from becoming chronic.
Symptoms of an ear infection may include:
Fever
Discharge from the ear
Dizziness
Stuffed feeling in the ears
Difficulty hearingTreatment usually involves antibiotics; once a course of antibiotics has commenced, you can expect relief within a matter of days. Additional complications can arise from ear infections, so it's important that you do see your doctor if you have been suffering from hay fever and find you are also experiencing symptoms of an ear infection.

Sinus Infection:
A sinus infection is a bacterial infection in one of the sinuses that drain into the nose. Hay fever can block the sinus, leading to congestion and subsequently, an infection may occur. Sinus congestion often will go away on by itself but if bacteria multiply within the sinus, an infection can occur.
Some of the symptoms that can indicate a sinus infection are:
Pain in the face
A yellowish or green coloured nasal discharge that persists
Facial swelling around the sinus area
FeverTreatment usually involves antibiotics and may also entail antihistamines, decongestants or over-the-counter pain remedies. Sinus infections can be very painful, which means that treating hay fever regularly is vital to reducing inflammation and irritation that can lead to a sinus infection.
Complications of hay fever such as bacterial infections can leave you feeling poorly, but medications can help to treat the discomfort associated with the infection. Ideally, you should see your doctor for hay fever treatment because chronic hay fever symptoms will put you at a higher risk for complications. Early treatment not only benefits you by reducing painful

--> SInus in brief.

Sinus.
The sinuses are cavities, or air-filled pockets located around the nose. Like the nasal passage, the sinuses are lined with mucous membranes.

There are four different types of sinuses:

Ethmoid sinuses - located inside the face, around the area of the bridge of the nose. These sinuses are present at birth, and continue to grow.

Maxillary sinuses - located inside the face, around the area of the cheeks. These sinuses are also present at birth, and continue to grow.

Frontal sinus - located inside the face, in the area of the forehead. This sinus does not develop until around 7 years of age.

Sphenoid sinuses - located deep in the face, behind the nose. These sinuses do not develop until adolescence

Sinusitis:
Sinusitis means an inflammation or irritation of the sinuses.
This inflammation can be caused by a number of factors including a bacterial infection, viral infection and allergies.

Acute sinusitis - occurs quickly and improves with the appropriate treatment.

Chronic sinusitis - occurs with repeated acute infections or with previous infections that do not completely get better. The symptoms last longer than three months.

Causes of Sinusitis :
In children, a sinus infection often occurs after an upper respiratory infection or common cold. Viruses cause these respiratory infections. Respiratory infection causes swelling of the nasal passages that can block the opening of the sinuses, and result in a sinus infection.

In children, a bacterial infection may follow closely after this viral infection. Allergies can also lead to sinusitis because of the swelling of the nasal tissue and increased production of mucus.

There are other possible conditions that can block the normal flow of secretions out of the sinuses and can lead to sinusitis including the following:
Abnormalities in the structure of the nose
Enlarged adenoids
Trauma to the nose
Foreign objects stuck in the nose
Problems with the immune system
Cystic fibrosis
Children at Risk for Getting Sinusitis The following are some of the factors that may increase your child's risk of developing sinusitis:
Spends time in a daycare setting
Being around someone who smokes
Family history of sinusitis
Having a cold
A poor immune system.

--> EAR Infection: TINITUS

TINITUS:

The symptoms of tinnitus is typically an unpleasant ringing noise, a buzzing noise, a whistling noise or a hissing sound in one or both ears.

The symptoms of tinnitus can disrupt sleep and may interfere with hearing conversations and other sounds.

The exact cause of tinnitus is misunderstood.

General thought is that it is not actually a sound but it is caused by abnormal blood flow rushing through the vein in the inner ear, or damage to the nerve in the inner ear by excessive noise.
Sometimes the cause can be associated with side effects from drugs such as quinine and high dosages of aspirin, a build up of wax in the ear can also be another cause.

Tinnitus is difficult to treat and the most common treatment by doctors is to use a tinnitus masker or ear plugs to stop further damage from excessive noise.

Some dietary changes may help the tinnitus sufferer:
Cut down on refined sugar and carbohydrates, salt, meat and saturated fats
Increase in the diet fruit and vegetables and fibre
Some tinnitus suffers have found relief with acupuncture and it is worth giving it a try.
Garlic, the B group vitamins, magnesium and zinc supplements are worth taking because they are vital for nerve health.
In trials, extracts of ginkgo biloba was found to help tinnitus in some cases due to improving circulation in the brain.


IMPORTANT NOTICE: This information is solely for informational purposes.IT IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Niether author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from treatment,exercise,dietary modification,action or application of medication,resulting from following the information in this information.Publication of this information does'nt constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does'nt replace the advice of physician.The reader must seek the advice of physician.

--> Ear Infections: Otitis Externa

Otitis Externa:

Otitis externa (swimmer's ear) is a type of ear infection of the outer ear or outer ear canal. It can cause the ear to itch or become red and inflamed so that head movement or touching of the ear is very painful. There may also be pus that drains from the ear.

Getting contaminated water in the ear can give people this type of ear infection. Swimmer's ear usually occurs within a few days of getting contaminated water or placing contaminated objects in the ear.

Swimmer's ear is not the same as the common childhood middle ear infection. If you can wiggle the outer ear without pain or discomfort, then your ear infection is probably not swimmer's ear.

--> Ear Infections: Otitis Media

Otitis Media:

Otitis media is a type of ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This inflammation often begins when infections that cause sore throats, colds, or other respiratory or breathing problems spread to the middle ear. These can be viral or bacterial infections.

Otitis media is also commonly referred to as:

Middle ear infection
Inner ear infection
Ear infection.

There are two main types of otitis media. The first type is called acute otitis media (AOM). This means that parts of the ear are infected and swollen. It also means that fluid and mucus are trapped inside the ear. AOM can be painful.

The second type is called otitis media with effusion (fluid), or OME. This means fluid and mucus stay trapped in the ear after the infection is over. OME makes it harder for the ear to fight new infections. This fluid can also affect your child's hearing.


Causes of Otitis Media:

An Introduction
Bacteria or viruses that get inside the ear are the most common causes of otitis media. These bacteria or viruses can initially cause sore throats, colds, or other respiratory or breathing problems and then spread to the middle ear.

Bacteria or Viruses Within the Ear
Bacteria or viruses reach the middle ear through the lining or the passageway of the eustachian tube; they can then produce infection. Infection causes swelling of the lining of the middle ear, blocking of the eustachian tube, and migration of white cells from the bloodstream to help fight the infection. In this process, the white cells accumulate, often killing bacteria and dying themselves, leading to the formation of pus (a thick yellowish-white fluid) in the middle ear.

As the fluid increases, the child may have trouble hearing because the eardrum and middle ear bones are unable to move as freely as they should. As the infection worsens, many children also experience severe ear pain. Too much fluid in the ear can put pressure on the eardrum and eventually tear it

Knowing the Risk Factors and Causes of Otitis Media
While not direct causes of otitis media, there are some things that can increase a person's chance of developing an ear infection. People who are at risk for otitis media include:

Children who are cared for in group settings
Children who live with adults who smoke cigarettes
Infants who nurse from a bottle while lying down
People with allergies
People with certain birth defects such as cleft palate, Down syndrome, and nervous system abnormalities.

Although certain otitis media risk factors can be avoided, it is important to keep in mind that avoiding risk factors does not guarantee that your child will not get otitis media. Some people are more sensitive than others to factors that can cause ear infections. Talk to your doctor about methods of ear infection prevention that might be effective for you or your child.

--> Ear Infection types

The three most common types of ear infections are otitis media, otitis interna (also known as an inner ear infection or labyrinthitis), and otitis externa (also known as an outer ear infection or swimmer's ear).
Otitis media is an ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear.
Otitis externa is a type of ear infection of the outer ear or outer ear canal. The most common of these types of ear infections is otitis media.

Overwiew:
There are three common types of ear infections:

Otitis media
Otitis externa (also known as an outer ear infection or swimmer's ear)
Otitis interna (also known as an inner ear infection or labyrinthitis).

-->Human Ear History.

Human Ears were Evolved from Ancient Fish Gills...!

Your ability to hear relies on a structure that got its start as a gill opening in fish, a new study reveals.
Humans and other land animals have special bones in their ears that are crucial to hearing. Ancient fish used similar structures to breathe underwater.
Scientists had thought the evolutionary change occurred after animals had established themselves on land, but a new look at an old fossil suggests ear development was set into motion before any creatures crawled out of the water.
The transition
Researchers examined the ear bones of a close cousin of the first land animals, a 370-million-year-old fossil fish called Panderichthys. They compared these structures to those of another lobe-finned fish and to an early land animal and determined that Panderichthys displays a transitional form.
In the other fish, Eusthenopteron, a small bone called the hyomandibula developed a kink and obstructed the gill opening, called a spiracle.
However, in early land animals such as the tetrapod Acanthostega, this bone has receded, creating a larger cavity in what is now part of the middle ear in humans and other animals.
Missing link
The new examination of the Panderichthys fossil provides scientists with a critical "missing link" between fish gill openings and ears.
"In Panderichthys, it is much more like in tetrapods where there is no longer such a 'kink' and the spiracle has widened and opened up," study co-author Martin Brazeau of Uppsala University in Sweden told LiveScience. "[The hyomandibula] is quite a bit shorter, but still fairly rod-like like in Eusthenopteron. It's like a combination of fish and tetrapods."
However, it's unclear if early tetrapods used these structures to hear. Panderichthys most likely used their spiracles for ventilation of either water or air. Early tetrapods probably passed air through the opening. Scientists would need preserved soft tissue to say for sure.
"That's the question that we're starting to investigate, whether early tetrapods used it for some ventilation function as well," Brazeau said. Whether it was for the exhalation of water or air, it's not really clear. We can infer that it's quite expanded and improved from fish."

--> Ear..Its..Facts

No matter what you do, your ears are always working. They are constantly detecting, deciphering and analysing sounds and communicating them to the brain. In a comparatively tiny area of our body the ear is performing many highly technical and intricate functions. Consider just a few of them:
(1) The human ear can cope with an incredible range of sound. Your ear can, in fact, cope with a 10,000,000,000,000 fold difference in loudness. That’s a range of 130 decibels.
(2) The ear can pick out and focus in on a particular sound or conversation in a roomful of noise.
(3) The human ear can detect a difference of just two degrees in the direction of a sound source.
(4) The ear is able to recognise at least 400,000 different sounds, matching them up against those stored in the memory banks. What we see of the ear is just the outer part of a very complex structure.

Scientists cannot fully explain just how the signals are transmitted to the brain. They do know that the signals sent by all the hair cells are about the same in duration and strength. This has led them to believe that it is not the content of the signals but rather the signals themselves that convey some sort of message to the brain.

Our ears, so often taken for granted, thus are a marvel of intricacy and design that leaves anything that man can produce in the shade as a cheap imitation. Your hearing can never be replaced. Don’t take it for granted.