Cholesteatoma
We’re Castle Rock, CO’s Leading Cholesteatoma Experts
You may not be familiar with cholesteatoma, but it can seriously affect ear health if left untreated. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or simply looking to learn more, Castle Rock Ear Associates in Castle Rock, CO, can help. We’re Douglas County’s leading experts in treating ear conditions like cholesteatoma and provide exceptional overall ear, nose, and throat care for our patients. Read further to learn about cholesteatoma, its risk factors, and ways we can treat it using a wealth of ear health expertise.
What Is Cholesteatoma?
Cholesteatoma refers to an abnormal, non-cancerous skin growth that develops in the middle ear, right behind the eardrum. You may think of it as a cyst-like sac made of skin cells and debris. While it sounds harmless, cholesteatoma can damage delicate bone structures in the ear. Over time, the condition can cause hearing loss, ear infections, balance problems, and even complications like meningitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing cholesteatoma effectively.
Understanding Causes and Risk Factors for Cholesteatoma
Cholesteatoma is often linked to dysregulated ear health. Its risk factors increase with untreated ear infections, frequent ear surgeries, or a family history of ear diseases. Common cholesteatoma causes include:
- Chronic Ear Infections – Repeated infections or fluid buildup in the middle ear can create conditions that lead to cholesteatoma.
- Poor Eustachian Tube Function – Your Eustachian tube normally regulates air pressure in the middle ear. If it malfunctions, your eardrum may retract, leading to cholesteatoma formation.
- Congenital Factors – Some children are born with congenital cholesteatoma.
Identifying Cholesteatoma Symptoms
Symptoms of cholesteatoma can vary from mild to severe, depending on how advanced the condition is. Nevertheless, you should consult with an ENT specialist if you notice any of the following:
- Hearing Loss – Reduced hearing in one ear is a frequent symptom.
- Persistent Ear Discharge – A foul-smelling, sometimes thick discharge may come from the ear.
- Ear Pain or Pressure – Ongoing discomfort or pain behind the eardrum can signal a problem.
- Tinnitus – Some individuals experience constant ringing or buzzing in their ear.
- Vertigo or Balance Issues – Advanced cases can affect your sense of balance, leading to dizziness.
We Can Accurately Diagnose Cholesteatoma
Accurately diagnosing cholesteatoma requires specialized care. At Castle Rock Ear Associates, we follow a thorough approach, including:
- Medical History Review – Your ENT specialist will ask about ear infections, surgeries, and family history of ear disease.
- Physical Examination – Our doctors use special instruments like otoscopes to check for signs of cholesteatoma.
- Hearing Tests – Audiometric tests measure your ability to hear sounds and detect any related hearing loss.
- Imaging – We may need to use CT scans to assess the extent of damage to the ear’s surrounding structures.
Our Team Offers Various Cholesteatoma Treatment Options
Effective cholesteatoma treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. However, prompt care greatly minimizes the risk of complications. Some of our most common cholesteatoma treatments are:
- Medications – Antibiotics or ear drops may help reduce infection and inflammation. This is often just a temporary measure.
- Cholesteatoma Surgery – An operation is usually necessary to remove the growth entirely. Known as a mastoidectomy, this procedure clears out the infected tissue and repairs ear damage. Our surgeons specialize in minimally invasive techniques to ensure fast recovery and excellent outcomes.
- Post-Surgical Care – Recovery involves regular check-ups to monitor healing and ensure no regrowth.
How to Prevent Cholesteatoma
Maintaining good ear hygiene and health can go a long way toward reducing your risk of cholesteatoma development. While not all cases can be prevented, follow these steps to protect your ear health:
- Keep ear infections under control by seeking medical care promptly.
- Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into your ears
- Regularly check in with your ENT specialist if you have frequent ear problems.
- Recognize the early warning signs of ear health changes, such as persistent pain or discharge.
You Can Trust Castle Rock Ear Associates
Castle Rock Ear Associates takes pride in offering compassionate, expert care to patients throughout Douglas County, CO. Your health matters to us, and we’re dedicated to helping you live without pain or hearing loss. Among the many reasons our patients trust us are:
- Expert ENT Specialists – Our ENT physicians are board-certified and experienced in cutting-edge surgical techniques.
- Comprehensive Care – We’ll help you during every step of your ear health journey, from diagnosis to long-term management.
- Patient-Focused Approach – We take the time to educate, listen, and create personalized treatment plans.
Contact Us to Address Your Cholesteatoma Today
Don’t ignore the signs of potential ear problems like cholesteatoma. Castle Rock Ear Associates is here to accurately diagnose and treat cholesteatoma in Castle Rock, CO. So, if you’re experiencing any symptoms, contact us today to schedule an appointment.