Hearing loss is suffered by as many as 10% of North Americans. The unique field of otolaryngologists is the treatment of ear disorders. Otolaryngologists are specially trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, earwax, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, earaches, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also treat congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.
