There are a number of different types of ear problems which may require medical treatment. The general categories of ear problems would include infections, hearing disorders, inflammatory disorders, neurologic problems and various benign or malignant tumors.
Ear infections are of two major types.
Acute infections which resolve with antibiotics are quite common. Frequently, children will have difficulties with recurring ear infections. There are no rigid criteria to designate who is a candidate for myringotomy tubes and who is not. The decision is carefully made for each patient after considering their exact circumstances as well as the wishes of the parents and the pediatrician. A very important factor in this decision is the child's status with regard to speech development.