ringing ears wax blockage

Many of us have experienced ear issues. Whether it is ringing in the ears, ear wax build up or clogging. While those are minor, normal instances, they could be a sign of something more serious.

Here are some common ear symptoms that could potential be signs of something more serious.

1. Ringing In The Ears

Typically ear issues worsen with age and ringing of the ears is one of them. Ringing in the ears, otherwise known as tinnitus is usually brought on by a wax buildup or exposure to loud noises.

Tinninus, however, could be related to a more serious issue, such as problems in the joints where the jawbone meets the skull. It could indicate an injury in your neck or head among other things.

2. Earwax Blockages

ringing ears wax blockage

OMICS International

Earwax blockages only affect 5% of healthy adults, however as you age it worsens. It is said that 57% of all nursing home residents have issues with earwax blockages.

As we age, changes in our glands allow for the earwax to harden, thus causing blockages. This can cause pain, itching, discharge and loss of hearing.

Experts advise people not to use cotton swabwas or other tools to remove the blockage, but instead schedule a visit with your doctor to take care of it properly.

3. Earache

Many of us have experienced earaches before, but earaches can be a sign of something major happening health wise.

Earaches can be caused by a building of wax, fluid and could be a sign of infection or tooth issue.

If you have symptoms that last longer than a day or you have other symptoms including fever, vomiting, throat pain or swelling, it’s time to see your doctor.

4. Red Ears

Tumbler

Red ears can be caused by many things. A change in temperature, or most often times, emotions. When someone becomes upset, blood rushes to the head and the ears can turn fiery red.

If your ears are red often and there is no logical explanation as to why, you may want to consult a doctor.

The adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys are responsible for secreting adrenaline. An adrenal insufficiency could result in extremely low blood pressure, weight loss, kidney failure and red ears.

5. Earlobe Crease

AARP

Most people have never looked for this before.

A diagonal crease known as Frank’s sign was found to have a relationship to stroke risk. Researchers found that 79 percent of 241 patients who were hospitalized with a stroke had Frank’s sign.

6. Itchy Ears / Psoriasis

There are many causes for itchy ears. Sometimes it’s a simple fungal infection, while another cause is psoriasis. Psoriasis is when your immune system attacks your skin by mistake. This can be very painful if you have it where the skin is thin on your ears.

Older people who have psoriasis are more likely to develop sudden deafness. Hearing is often restored in 50 perfect of people who experienced sudden deafness within two to three weeks.

Source: AARP / Medical Daily