Ear
Cholesteatoma and unsafe ear disease
Cholesteatoma and unsafe ear disease can have more than one cause, so careful history, examination, and follow-up help guide safe treatment.
Cholesteatoma is abnormal skin trapped in the middle ear or mastoid. It can slowly expand, cause discharge, erode bone, reduce hearing, and lead to complications if untreated.
01
Common symptoms
Persistent foul smelling discharge
Progressive hearing loss
Ear fullness or blockage
Recurrent infection
Dizziness or facial weakness in advanced disease
02
How ENT evaluation may be done
Microscopic ear examination
Hearing test
CT scan of the temporal bone
Facial nerve and balance symptom review
Surgical risk counselling
03
Treatment options
Ear cleaning and infection control
Dry ear precautions
Mastoid surgery planning
Tympanoplasty or hearing reconstruction when appropriate
Long term follow up for recurrence
04
Home care and preparation
Do not ignore foul smelling discharge
Avoid water entry
Keep reports and surgery notes safely
Attend follow up even after symptoms improve
05
Questions to ask during consultation
Is cholesteatoma present?
What type of mastoid surgery is needed?
Can hearing be improved?
How often do I need follow up?
Warning signs
When to seek urgent care
Urgent care is needed for vertigo, facial weakness, severe headache, fever, swelling behind the ear, or neurological symptoms.
This page is for general educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.