DEAR DR. GOTT:
My child suffers from constant ear infections and we have been told he may require surgery to place tubes in his ears. I don’t want to do this but hate to see him in so much pain. Are there any non-surgical options?
DEAR READER:
While I don’t know the reason for your child’s repeated ear infections, I will fill you in on one non-surgical item available on the market. In 2005 the FDA approved the Ear Popper, a non-invasive, non-drug related prescription device for treating fluid in the middle ear, Eustachian tube dysfunction, otitis media, pain from travel in an airplane, hearing loss, and fullness from sinus conditions and colds.
Popping of the ears is common and is nature’s way of relieving pressure imbalances of the middle ear. When the natural method doesn’t work, pressure in the middle ear becomes higher or lower than in the outer. Fluid can accumulate and hearing loss and pain result. The purpose of the Ear Popper is to equalize pressure in the middle ear by opening the Eustachian tube. This is done by directing a steady but controlled stream of air through the nose. The simple act of swallowing directs air into the Eustachian tube, relieves the imbalance of pressure and pain is gone almost immediately. The popping sound nature makes will be duplicated during use of the Ear Popper and simply indicates successful treatment.
I urge you to speak with your son’s ear-nose-and-throat specialist about this option because it is not appropriate for all ear conditions and patients. Only he or she will know if it is an appropriate consideration.
Because all insurances vary, I cannot guess if the product is covered under any health coverage you might have. I stress this because the unit is expensive. A home kit costs approximately $200, while a professional unit for a physician’s office is $300. Therefore, I recommend you do your homework if this option is of interest to you. All that is required is for your physician to write Ear Popper on a prescription pad that you present to your local pharmacy. If the unit isn’t in stock, it will be ordered for your home use. Or, if you prefer, ask your physician or an ENT specialist if he or she has a professional unit in his office where the simple service can be provided.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Ear Infections and Disorders”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott