Wax secreted from glands in the ear canal that keeps the skin of the ear dry and protects it from infection. The medical term is cerumen (sir-ROO-men).
Ear Tubes
See Pressure Equalization Tube.
Earmold
The part of a behind-the-ear hearing aid that fits into the ear and directs sound from a BTE hearing aid into the ear canal. It also helps hold the hearing aid in place. It is typically made of plastic or vinyl.
Early Intervention Services
Services provided by both public and private agencies to infants and toddlers and their families. These services are designed by law to support families in enhancing a child’s potential growth and development from birth to age three.
Ear Infection
The presence and growth of bacteria or viruses in the ear. (See also Acute Otitis Media).
Ear Impression
An impression or cast of the ear canal made to determine the exact size and shape of an ear. The impression is used to make in-the-ear hearing aids, earmolds for BTE hearing aids or custom-made ear plugs.