Vertigo the sensation that you are in motion, even when you are standing still, or that everything around you is moving. It feels similar to being on a boat, and can result in the same feeling of loss of balance, nausea and vomiting. The attack typically lasts from a few seconds to minutes, but it can last days. Effects range from minimal to severe enough to affect your daily life, but it's more than just dizziness. Vertigo has nothing to do with a fear of heights. This is a popular misconception that started from the Alfred Hitchcock movie of the same name. Acrophobia means fear of heights, but it may cause a spinning sensation when looking down from a high place that is similar to some aspects of vertigo.

It's quite common to get an itchy ear. There can be a number of causes, so if this persists past a few days, it's worth getting checked out. If you suffer from psoriasis, eczema or dry skin, this can also affect your ear canal, where debris from dead skin cells builds up and irritates. If you've been on holiday, "Mediterranean ear" can develop as a result of sweating and bathing in hot climates. Hard Earwax can build up and irritate, with some reporting an itch as the primary symptom, and if a good solid blockage of the eardrum, you may also suffer a loss of hearing. Otitis externa describes inflammation in the lining of the ear canal and can be associated with infection - in this case, the ear would be painful (often described as earache) more than itchy, and you may also have a cough or cold and fever.

Hearing loss is a significant health issue that affects communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. It can range from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears. The prevalence of hearing loss is notable, with millions of people worldwide experiencing varying degrees of auditory impairment. This condition can affect individuals of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and its impact can be profound, influencing not only personal and professional relationships but also mental and emotional well-being.

An ear infection can affect the middle ear, just beyond the eardrum, causing inflammation and pain, and this is called acute otitis media. Bacteria or viruses can cause the infection, but either way, it usually gets better by itself after about 3 days. The middle ear can fill with pus and the pressure can cause pain. Children can get ear infections due to a cold, flu, letting too much water in the ear after bathing or swimming, or constant allergies.

Earaches are a common ailment that can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort and distress, particularly among children. While often associated with ear infections, earaches can stem from various causes, making them a concern for individuals of all ages. Understanding the nature of earaches, including their causes and symptoms, is essential for effective management and timely treatment. The importance of recognising and addressing earaches cannot be overstated. Left untreated, they can lead to complications or signal more serious underlying conditions. By clearly understanding what causes earaches and how to manage them, you can alleviate discomfort and prevent more severe health issues. In this article, we'll cover: The definition and anatomy of an earache Common causes and symptoms How earaches are diagnosed and treated Prevention strategies to avoid earaches in the future

Earache, or ear pain, is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can significantly impact daily life. Understanding earache's underlying causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of earache, including its definition, common causes, and the impact it can have on individuals. By exploring the various aspects of earache, we aim to equip readers with the knowledge they need to address this condition and seek appropriate care. What is an earache? Earache refers to pain or discomfort experienced in or around the ear. It can occur in different parts of the ear, including the outer ear, middle ear, or inner ear. Earache can be classified into several types based on its location and underlying cause: Outer ear pain** - Pain originating from the outer ear canal, often due to infection or irritation. It is sometimes referred to as "swimmer’s ear." Middle ear pain** - Pain from the middle ear, usually associated with infections, fluid buildup, or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Inner ear pain** - Pain originating from the inner ear structures, which may be less common but can occur with certain infections or disorders. The pain can vary in intensity, from sharp and stabbing to dull and throbbing. It may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as hearing loss, discharge, fever, or dizziness, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.