Ear diseases and disorders

Acoustic neuroma
An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumour that grows in the acoustic or eighth cranial nerve. Learn how it affects hearing, balance and other functions.

Deafness
Deafness is a complete loss of hearing. This page offers you information about living with deafness, the deaf community, sign language and more.

Earache
Earache is common and it's often the result of an ear infection. Find out what causes a ear pain, how to treat a sore ear to provide relief.

Ear infection
Ear infections are common but usually go away on their own. Learn about the different types of ear infections, the symptoms in adults and children and...

Ear wax
Ear wax (cerumen) is produced by tiny glands in the ear canal and helps keep the ears clean. Find out how to treat a build-up of ear wax.

Fluid from the ear
Fluid from your ear may be just ear wax, but sometimes it can indicate illness or injury. Read more here about the causes and treatments.

Glue ear
Glue ear (otitis media with effusion) develops when liquid builds up inside your middle ear. Learn about its causes, symptoms and treatment.

Hearing loss
Hearing loss is usually permanent, but you can protect your hearing by avoiding loud noise. Know the symptoms, when to get tested and what you can do ...

Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the balancing centre in your inner ear. Find out how it may come about, its symptoms and the treatment options.

Meniere’s disease
Meniere's disease is a disorder of the ear that causes hearing and balance problems. There's no cure, but the symptoms can be managed.

Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Otitis media (middle ear infection) is common and often gets better by itself. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and when it might need treatment.

Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis is an inherited condition that affects the middle ear and is a common cause of deafness. Find out about the 2 ways to treat otosclerosis.

Swimmer's ear (otitis externa)
Swimmer's ear is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal. Learn what you can do to avoid the risks of developing swimmer’s ear.

Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, whistling or hissing in one or both ears when there is no outside sound. Find out when you should get help.

Vertigo
Vertigo is a feeling of movement, spinning, tilting or swaying when your body is not actually moving. Learn about the main causes and treatments.