What is Fistula?
A fistula is an abnormal hole or rupture in the window that connects the middle ear cavity and the cochlea, allowing the leakage of inner ear fluid (perilymph) into the middle ear and often resulting in hearing loss and dizziness.
How Serious is a Fistula?
The seriousness of a fistula depends on the size of the hole and the amount of perilymph that is leaking. Small fistulas may not cause any symptoms, while larger fistulas can cause severe hearing loss and dizziness.
What Causes a Fistula in the Ear?
There are a number of factors that can cause a fistula in the ear, including:
- Head trauma: Head trauma is the most common cause of a fistula in the ear. The impact of the trauma can cause the window that separates the middle ear from the cochlea to rupture.
- Ear surgery: Ear surgery can also cause a fistula in the ear. This is because the surgery may damage the window that separates the middle ear from the cochlea.
- Otitis media: Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear. The infection can cause inflammation and swelling, which can put pressure on the window that separates the middle ear from the cochlea. This pressure can cause the window to rupture.
- Dehiscence: Dehiscence is a condition in which the bone that separates the middle ear from the cochlea is thin or absent. This can increase the risk of a fistula developing.
How Do You Treat a Fistula in the Ear?
The treatment for a fistula in the ear depends on the size of the hole and the amount of perilymph that is leaking. Small fistulas may not require any treatment. However, larger fistulas may require surgery to repair the hole.
Can Fistula Cause Hearing Loss?
Yes, fistula can cause hearing loss. This is because the leakage of perilymph into the middle ear can put pressure on the cochlea. This pressure can damage the hair cells in the cochlea, which are responsible for hearing.
Conclusion
A fistula is a serious condition that can cause hearing loss and dizziness. If you think you may have a fistula, it is important to see an audiologist or otolaryngologist (ENT) for diagnosis and treatment.