Acquired stenosis of the external ear canal is a condition where the canal that leads from the outer ear to the eardrum becomes narrow or blocked. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including repeated ear infections, ear trauma, or exposure to certain chemicals or irritants. When the cause of the stenosis is not known, it is referred to as "unspecified."
Some common symptoms of acquired stenosis of the external ear canal can include hearing loss, ear pain or discomfort, ringing in the ears, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention from an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
The treatment for acquired stenosis of the external ear canal depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with ear drops or earwax removal, while more severe cases may require surgery to widen the ear canal or remove scar tissue.
There are also some things you can do at home to help alleviate the symptoms of acquired stenosis of the external ear canal. These include avoiding exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke or loud noises, keeping your ears clean and dry, and avoiding the use of cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears.
Preventing acquired stenosis of the external ear canal involves taking steps to protect your ears from injury and infection. This can include wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, avoiding swimming in polluted water, and seeking prompt treatment for ear infections or other ear-related issues.
Acquired stenosis of the external ear canal can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but it is treatable. If you are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, or ringing in the ears, it is important to seek medical attention from an ENT specialist. With proper treatment and prevention measures, you can protect your ears and maintain good ear health.