Ears

Our ear services at Boulder Valley ENT include the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide range of ear conditions. Our ENT specialists are expertly equipped to handle diverse ear conditions with precision and care, ensuring your ear health is in experienced and well-trained hands. 

Ear Conditions We Treat

Middle-Ear Infection (Chronic Otitis Media) 

Earaches are often caused by ear infections that occur in the middle ear and are known as otitis media. Otitis Media can cause severe discomfort in both children and adults. Here at Boulder Valley ENT we frequently treat acute and chronic middle ear infections reducing the pain they cause and preventing long term hearing loss and other complications that can arise from them.

Perforated Eardrums

Our experienced providers here at Boulder Valley ENT are well versed in the identification and treatment of ruptured eardrums, whether it be medical management or surgical repair to prevent chronic hearing loss.

Otitis Externa (a.k.a. Swimmer’s Ear)

Swimmer’s ear, medically referred to as otitis externa, is an infection in the ear canal usually caused by water remaining in the ear canal. The fluid and moisture encourages growth of bacteria and fungi which can infect and inflame the skin and tissue of the ear canal, causing severe pain, discharge and a decrease in hearing (usually short term).  We provide comprehensive care, by offering accurate diagnosis, effective treatment to eradicate the infection and prevention advice.

Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

Our ENT experts offer thorough evaluation, counseling, and management strategies for tinnitus, the ringing in the ears that can range from mildly annoying to debilitating and anxiety causing. Tinnitus therapy often includes sound therapy and lifestyle adjustments. See our Tinnitus page for more information

Hearing Loss

We are proud to provide expert evaluation and treatment of hearing loss. Our audiology department will identify types and causes of hearing loss with the latest technology and tests. Once the type of hearing loss is discovered, any underlying condition is treated and solutions such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other assistive devices are explored. It is our goal to improve your hearing and communication abilities to allow for improved social engagement between you, friends and family. See our Hearing Loss Section for an in-depth visit into the multitude of services we provide for those with hearing loss.

Dizziness and Motion Sickness

Here at Boulder Valley ENT we are experts in diagnosing and treating ENT related causes of dizziness, vertigo and motion sickness. We can address the multitude of ear related causes of these often debilitating conditions while also focusing on the balance issues that frequently accompany them.

Earwax Impaction

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Its primary function is to protect the ears. The oily, sticky nature of earwax helps trap dust, debris, and small particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum where they could potentially cause damage or infection. Earwax also contains antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the warm, moist environment of the ear canal. Furthermore, it helps to lubricate the ear canal, preventing dryness or irritation that can cause discomfort. So, while it may not seem pleasant, earwax plays a vital role in maintaining ear health. 

However, if earwax builds up and hardens (a condition known as cerumen impaction), it can cause symptoms like earache, tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness, or a feeling of fullness in the ear. In such cases, earwax should be removed. It’s important to remember that earwax removal should be performed by a healthcare professional to avoid potential injury or infection.

Ear Procedures and Treatments

Ear Tubes

Ear tubes are often considered when ear infections become frequent and/or are severe. Here at Boulder Valley ENT we perform ear tube procedures (also known as myringotomy) to relieve chronic ear pressure and pain caused by frequent infections. Not only can the procedure reduce the recurrence of infection, it is used to also prevent hearing loss due to frequent abundance of fluid in middle the ear. 

Hearing Treatments

See our Hearing Loss section for more information regarding the variety of treatments we offer to diagnose and improve your hearing and/or balance.  We offer all the latest technologies, including over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, while giving you the highest level of customer service. You will see a positive impact in your life and in your relationships!

Earwax Removal

When earwax becomes impacted in the ear canal people often notice fullness and/or decreased hearing and sometimes pain. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may benefit from having, a professional earwax removal procedure. Occasionally, over-the-counter “earwax kits” are useful for very mild cases or to help prevent build-up of earwax, but for fully impacted cerumen (earwax) an in-office treatment may be necessary. Our ENT providers carefully remove earwax with specialized instruments when necessary. 

Perforated Eardrum Repair

Although most perforated eardrums (a.k.a. tympanic membranes) heal on their own, some have difficulty fully closing, and may require surgical repair. Sometimes these procedures are more simple and straightforward and can be done in the office. However, with children, the procedure can also be done in a facility or hospital where more sedation or general anesthesia can be used if necessary. Eardrum repair is quick and complications are rare. Most patients go home the same day. 

Contact Us Today!

At Boulder Valley Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, we provide the highest quality patient care in a friendly, professional atmosphere. We emphasize personalized customer service, availability, efficiency, honesty and integrity, and attention to detail. We strive to do things the right way at every level, all the time. Contact us today for your any ear concerns.