ENT Ear Doctor in NC

ENT Carolina specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear pain, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear) and vertigo (dizziness).

At ENT Carolina, our ENT specialists treat a variety of ear conditions for both children and adults, including but not limited to ear trauma, ear pain, and dizziness, providing a thorough ENT evaluation tailored to each patient.

From audiologic testing, such as hearing or ear pressure tests, to comprehensive hearing aid services, we have the expertise and resources to accurately pinpoint the source of symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan that works for you as part of trusted North Carolina ENT care.

Ear Pain

Ear pain is a common complaint resulting from infection, poor eustachian tube function (which can cause cholesteatoma), or temporomandibular joint problems (TMJ).

TMJ is a frequent cause of pain in the ear area and is often misdiagnosed. Treatment can include anti-inflammatory medication and/or a dental splint.

Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear)

Swimmer’s Ear is an infection that occurs in the skin of the ear canal.

Symptoms can include:

• Pain
• Tenderness to the touch
• Drainage

Serous Otitis Media (Middle Ear Fluid)

Serous Otitis Media means there is fluid behind the eardrum and can have multiple causes.

Symptoms include:

• Hearing loss
• Blocked sensation
• Vertigo

Your doctor will properly diagnose this condition and recommend a course of treatment.

Middle Ear Infections

When abnormal fluid in the middle ear becomes infected with bacteria, it is considered a middle ear infection.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Ear pain that is worse when laying down
• Difficulty sleeping and irritability

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed for children with middle ear infections; however, some children have recurring infections that may require ear tubes to equalize pressure and eliminate future infections.

Eardrum Perforations

Perforations of the eardrum usually result from infection or trauma.

Perforations due to chronic infection may not heal and can be associated with some degree of hearing loss. Surgical procedures may be required to repair the eardrum.

Dizziness

The term dizziness is a general term that represents different sensations for different people.

Symptoms include:

• A sensation of movement, spinning or swaying
• Nausea
• Trouble walking or standing

Although dizziness is highly treatable, it is important for your physician to determine the root cause of dizziness before recommending a course of treatment.

Dizziness can be caused by several conditions, including:

• Poor circulation
• Anxiety
• Vertigo
• Meniere’s Disease
• Migraines
• Medications

To pinpoint the cause of dizziness, a full medical history and complete examination by one of our ENT physicians are necessary.

Earwax buildup

Earwax, also called cerumen, helps protect the ear canal by trapping dust, debris, and other particles. In many cases, old wax moves out of the ear naturally. Sometimes, though, wax can build up, harden, or become packed into the ear canal. This is called cerumen impaction.

Earwax buildup may cause symptoms such as:

• Muffled hearing
• A clogged, plugged, or full feeling in the ear
• Ear pressure or discomfort
• Ringing in the ear
• Itching in the ear canal
• Dizziness or balance concerns
• Trouble wearing hearing aids comfortably

Using cotton swabs or other objects inside the ear canal can push wax deeper and make the blockage worse. If your ear feels blocked or your hearing changes, an ENT specialist can examine your ear and determine whether wax is the cause.

ENT Carolina offers earwax removal and cerumen removal for patients who need safe, careful ear cleaning. Depending on your ear exam, professional removal may include manual removal, microsuction, irrigation, or wax-softening guidance.