(AscendHealthy.com) – When it comes to our health and proper bodily functions, we often think of our major internal organs. Very rarely, unless there is an acute issue, do we think about our ears. Yet, ears can actually say a lot about our health and possible underlying issues that may be going on. Read further to find out what clues ears may give us about our health.
Chronic Earaches
An earache is a painful and irritating experience. Pain, drainage, and muffled hearing are just a few symptoms that suggest something is wrong. Most acute earaches come and go with no real, lasting effect.
Those that occur chronically may indicate something going on in the ear, such as an ear infection or wax buildup. If pain is associated with a fever and redness, make an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Ringing
Everyone gets an occasional ringing in the ear. It might be from changes in air pressure or from listening to music too loudly. But when it’s constant and creates a headache and further irritation, it could be caused by a condition called tinnitus. A humming, hissing, buzzing or whistling are prime indicators of tinnitus. It’s often derived from hearing loss at the cochlear nerve level.
Tinnitus can have numerous causes, ranging from ear disorders and earwax blockages to age-related hearing loss and head and neck injuries. It has also been linked to high blood pressure, head and neck tumors, atherosclerosis, and chronic kidney disease. Your doctor will examine your ear and check for any underlying problems before treating it.
Ear Crease
Some people develop a noticeable crease in their ears as they get older. The culprit could stem from an array of skin and body changes, but it may also point to underlying heart disease.
This diagonal mark, also referred to as Frank’s Sign, can be a highly suggestive indicator of developing heart disease in the future. Take a look. If you have it, ask your primary care physician (PCP) or cardiologist about a complete medical workup.
Red Ears
Do you find yourself with red earlobes frequently? There are many causes of this, including bacterial infection, dermatitis, or flushing. Flushing occurs when the blood vessels open wider, causing red cheeks and ears.
If red ears are caused by an underlying skin condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis, the ears will be flaky and itchy. Make a doctor’s appointment If you’re concerned about the underlying cause.
Your ears play an important role in both appearance and well-being. Making sure your ears are performing properly is vital to optimal health. If your ears are posing an issue or concern, now is the time for an ear evaluation. Work with your PCP first. Your healthcare provider will refer you to medical specialists like an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor if needed. Don’t risk your hearing or your general health; keep listening to your ears, starting now.
~Here’s to Your Healthy Ascension
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