How to Know?

ENT specialist, Dr. Sameer Lambey, says, "Both men and women are equally subject to ear related problems."

In fact, Dr. Lambey feels that ear related problems are on the rise in recent times.

Here are some reasons for it.

• Untreated common cold
• Noise pollution such as blaring horns, loud speakers, etc.
• Usage of ear buds

So, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you need to be careful.

• Pain in the ear
• Deafness
• A blocked sensation
• A problem with speed recognition (You can't tell how fast something is approaching you)
• You might also feel confused when two or three people talk simultaneously, as it might be difficult to gauge where the sound is coming from.

Risk Factor

Apart from deafness, there are other risk factors that you need to know about. Loss of hearing can result in stress and depression. Since is difficult to understand what others are saying, you tend to feel left out.

This happens especially among the elderly. If your child develops a hearing problem at a very young age, it could impair her speech development as well.

How to Help?

According to Dr. Lambey, never leave a common cold untreated. The infection could spread to your ears and cause severe damage.

While having a shower, don't allow water to get into your ears. Too much exposure of water to your ear drums could cause permanent damage.

Do not use ear buds on a daily basis. Besides removing the essential wax, it increases the risk of ear drums injury, which could cause permanent deafness.

If you have been experiencing any ear-related problems, visit an ENT specialist. A simple test will decide if you have any ear-related problems that need immediate treatment.