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On–The–Ear (OTE)/Open Ear Hearing Aid – A more recently developed style of a BTE hearing aid that utilizes a thinner tubing and a placement of the electronics lower down behind the ear for better cosmetic appeal with less occlusion.

Otitis Media – Inflammation of the middle ear caused by infection.

Otoacoustic Emissions – Low–intensity sounds produced by the inner ear that can be quickly measured with a sensitive microphone placed in the ear canal in individuals with normal hearing. Often used to screen the hearing of infants.

Otolaryngologist – Physician/surgeon who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose, throat, and head and neck.

Otologist – Physician/surgeon who specializes in diseases of the ear.

Otosclerosis – Abnormal growth of bone around the ossicles and the inner ear. This bone prevents structures within the ear from working properly and causes hearing loss. For some people with otosclerosis, the hearing loss may become severe, but often the hearing can be improved by surgery or hearing aids.

Ototoxic Drugs – Drugs that can damage the hearing and balance organs located in the inner ear.

Otoscope – A magnifying and lighting tool utilized by healthcare workers to look into the ear canal.

Outer Ear – External portion of the ear, consisting of the pinna, or auricle, and the ear canal.

Otolaryngologist – An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) physician.