The Evidence-Based Guide to Ear Infections

The following was collaborated with Dr. Jessica Lee, a double board-certified Otolaryngologist–Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT) and Lifestyle Medicine physician. It is for informational purposes only, and is not medical advice. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Understanding Ear Infections

When fluid and inflammation build up behind the ear drum it can cause an ear infection. Ear infections are most common in babies and children because their Eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal, compared to adults, making it easier for viruses or bacteria to travel from the throat to the ear.

By 3 years old 60-80% of kids will have had at least one ear infection, with the peak age being 6-15 months old. Acute otitis media is the number one reason for antibiotic prescription in kids. 

Who’s at a Higher Risk?

• Babies in daycare before 12 months

• Babies with siblings in school/daycare

• Children with recurrent respiratory virus exposure 

• Babies who are bottle fed supine (lying down)

• Babies who use a pacifier past 6 months 

• Children with large adenoids 

• Children with allergies

• Smoke exposure

Is It True Most Ear Infections are Viral?

You might often hear, “most ear infections are viral, which means antibiotics are unnecessary yet are still prescribed.” Antibiotics are over prescribed, but not necessarily because they are being mis-diagnosed. 

Let’s break this down. 

Most ear infections in kids begin with a viral upper respiratory infection. When there’s inflammation and swelling in the nose and Eustachian tubes it can prevent the middle ear from draining properly, causing fluid to become trapped behind the eardrum. There’s already bacteria present in the middle ear, which then takes advantage of the opportunity. 

So yes, most ear infections DO involve a virus, but that doesn’t mean they’re exclusively viral. Bacteria can be present at the same time. In fact, studies have found viral-bacterial co-infection in roughly ⅔ of children with middle ear infections.

Therefore, “co-infection” is often a more accurate term than simply calling an ear infection “viral” or “bacterial.” The presence of a virus alone doesn’t tell us whether bacteria is also involved, or whether antibiotics may be appropriate.

Historically, the most common bacteria was Streptococcus pneumoniae, but in the post vaccination era (as a results of PCV7/13) we are now more likely to find Moraxella catarrhalis and non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (and possibly non-vaccine covered serotypes of S. pneumoniae). 

It’s important to understand this shift, because choice of antibiotic (if needed) changes depending on vaccination status and most likely bacteria involved. 

Two Types of Ear Infections

Not all fluid behind the eardrum looks the same, and this distinction can give important clues about what’s causing the infection. When looking at the eardrum, one of the biggest things to differentiate is whether the fluid is purulent (pus-like) or serous (thin and clear/amber).

Acute otitis media with purulent effusion (AOM/P): There is pus-like fluid behind the eardrum, which is more suggestive of bacterial involvement, often alongside a viral infection (aka viral/bacterial co-infection). This is the most common type of infection. 

Acute serous otitis media (ASOM): The fluid is thin and clear or amber/honey-colored and is more likely caused by inflammation and swelling from the viral infection itself, rather than bacteria (aka “viral” infection). 

How to Determine if an Infection is Viral or Bacterial?

It can be very difficult to differentiate between viral or viral/bacterial coinfection based on signs and symptoms alone. However, by day 3, the two infections typically start to look very different.. 

In viral infections, fever may be low grade with pain that improves with OTC pain medication, but by day 3 these symptoms typically begin to improve. 

In viral/bacterial co-infections you may see a second spike by day 3, with high grade fever (>102.2F), increasing pain not relieved with medication, and distinct signs of bulging eardrum with pus behind it on exam. 

This is why the AAP recommends “watchful waiting” for the first 48-72 hours for children >2 years old with mild symptoms. 

When is “Watchful Waiting” Appropriate?

This approach is appropriate for kids over the age of 2 with mild symptoms for 48-72 hours (with the rationale noted above). 

However, this does not mean “there is nothing to do.” There are many ways to provide symptomatic relief for pain, and reduce potentially harmful antibiotic prescriptions in cases where they may not have been necessary. 

When Should Antibiotics Be Considered?

It is recommended that children under the age of 2 with definitive acute otitis media (eardrum bulging, opaque and actively inflamed) be treated with antibiotics as a protective measure based on higher risk of complications, structural and immune vulnerability, and evidence showing that young children do not clear bacterial infections on their own as effectively as older children. 

However, even kids under 2 with viral associated otitis media with effusion (but not evidence of bulging, pus, or severe pain/high fever) can be monitored closely. 

Kids older than 3 whose clinical picture worsens during the “watchful waiting” period should also be considered for antibiotic therapy. 

If antibiotics are warranted, there are things you can do to support the body throughout the course. Check out that protocol (This protocol was developed separate from this collaboration and is not endorsed by Dr. Lee). 

A Note on Antibiotic Length

Emerging evidence suggests that longer isn’t always better when it comes to antibiotics for ear infections. A 2024 review in the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society supports 5 days of antibiotics as an effective option for many children ages 2+ with uncomplicated acute otitis media vs 10 days. There were similar clinical outcomes to the traditional 10-day course. Younger children and those with severe or complicated infections may still benefit from longer treatment, so duration should always be individualized with your child’s provider. PMID: 38581154

Supporting an Ear Infection at Home

The first step is getting an accurate diagnosis of what’s actually happening behind the eardrum. Is the infection AOM/P (viral+bacterial co-infection) or ASOM (strictly viral)? 

Ear Camera

The BeBird ear camera is a small at-home otoscope that connects to a phone, allowing parents to take photos or videos of the ear canal and eardrum.

At-home ear cameras have traditionally been discouraged for cleaning, but they can be a helpful tool when used for viewing and documenting when it comes to infections.

With an ear camera, parents can capture what the ear looks like and share the images directly with their clinician. This can help avoid unnecessary antibiotic treatment when the eardrum hasn’t been adequately visualized (unfortunately, too many kids are prescribed antibiotics for ear pain “just in case” when the eardrum isn’t even visible due to wax impaction). 

Ear cameras should not be used to remove wax or clean the ear due to the risk of injury.

Once you know the accurate diagnosis, then you can treat based on evidence. 

*Dr. Lee does not receive additional revenue from BeBird Camera purchases, but she has served as a paid collaborator providing educational content only. 

Determine the Goal

Then, we have to ask: “What’s the goal? Reduced sick days, reduced pain, faster objective recovery, reduced risk of complications?”

In many of these categories, there are studies showing potential benefits. However, the studies are often small and lack control groups, making it difficult to know whether the intervention actually helped or if the infection would have improved on its own.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common recommendations and break down what the research actually says, how strong the evidence is, what the intervention may actually help with, and any potential risks to consider.

Garlic and Mullein Oil

Garlic and mullein ear drops are one of the “go to” ear infection support recommendations to relieve ear pain and discomfort. 

Mullein is traditionally used for its soothing and astringent properties, while garlic contains compounds with antimicrobial activity.

One study found that herbal ear drops containing garlic provided similar pain relief to OTC anesthetic ear drops, and laboratory studies have shown that compounds in garlic can act against some microorganisms associated with ear infections.

However, there isn’t enough evidence to use these drops in place of antibiotics when antibiotics are recommended. They should also only be used when the eardrum is intact (avoid in children with ear tubes, a perforated eardrum, or when you’re unsure whether the eardrum is intact).

• Dr. Green Mom

• Earthley Ear Ache Ease

• Herb Pharm

• Wally’s Naturals

Moderate level of evidence

Pain reduction

Low risk (when used with intact eardrum)

PMID 12728112, 32128511, 26871802, 36088163

Osteopathic Manipulation Therapy (OMT)

The main technique (Galbreath maneuver), uses gentle massage and movement around the jaw to help encourage the Eustachian tube to open and the middle ear to drain. This type of treatment focuses on gentle soft-tissue techniques vs forceful or high-velocity adjustments.

OMT should not replace recommended medical treatment for children under 2 with AOM/P (bacterial co-infection), since they are at higher risk for complications. However, it may be considered as an additional supportive treatment for children over 2 with mild symptoms, whether they have AOM/P or ASOM.

Modest level evidence

Reduced risk of recurrence, faster symptoms relief, faster objective resolution of acute infection

PMID 40481343

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care often involves quick, small adjustments to the upper neck, sometimes called spinal manipulation therapy (SMT). There isn’t currently strong evidence showing that these adjustments help treat ear infections (most of the research consists of individual case reports or small case series). In theory, relaxing tight muscles around the neck could help the Eustachian tube open and drain, but this hasn’t been proven.

Chiropractic care should not replace recommended medical treatment for children under 2 with AOM/P (bacterial co-infection). For children over 2 with mild symptoms (AOM/P or ASOM), OMT could be considered as an additional supportive therapy, but high-velocity neck adjustments are not recommended.

Low level evidence

Reduced risk of recurrence, faster symptom relief

High risk if high velocity, low amplitude methods

PMID 23449823

Red Light Therapy

There have been a couple of animal studies using red and near-infrared light to treat middle ear inflammation and biofilm, but no human studies to date. For RLT to affect the tissue it has to be absorbed, and the Eustachian tube is quite deep in the skull. It certainly won’t hurt, and the warmth can be soothing. Hopefully we’ll see more studies in the future focusing on the tympanic membrane and middle ear. 

Low level of evidence, animal studies only

Reduced inflammation, biofilm

Low risk

PMID 36911197, 40893784

Homeopathy

There have been a few small, promising studies looking at homeopathy for ear infections, suggesting it may have a role as supportive care during the “watchful waiting” period.

In one small 2012 study, children with acute otitis media were given either conventional pain relief or individualized homeopathic treatment. Nearly all children in the conventional group eventually received antibiotics, compared with none in the homeopathy group.

The most commonly used remedies were Pulsatilla, Mercurius, Silicea, and Chamomilla. However, other reviews have found no meaningful difference in outcomes, and concerns about study size and potential bias remain. 

• Belladonna: intense earaches that come and go suddenly 

• Hepar sulphuris calcereum: very painful or infected ear, with bulging eardrums or pus formation; cold, irritable

• Mercurius solubility: advanced ear infection with pus formation, shooting pain, and roaring in the ear. Typically this person will be very sensitive to temperature. Damp, warm. 

• Pulsatilla: for ear infections that follow or accompany nasal drainage symptoms, clingy disposition

• Aconitum napellus: for earaches occurring after exposure to cold weather 

• Kali muriaticum: for ear congestion with cracking sounds in the ear, worsened by the change in pressure 

• Magnesia phosphoric: for earaches that feel better when warmth and pressure is applied

• Chamomilla: ear pain with watery nasal discharge, irritable but wants to be carried

• Hyland's homeopathic drops

New to homeopathy? Here's how I dose.

Low evidence

Reduced recurrence, faster recovery, decreased risk of need for antibiotics, reduced pain

Low risk

PMID 11680801, 16125589, 36088163

The Nike Swoosh Pull

This is an at-home “adjustment” often recommended by chiropractors. It refers to gentle manipulation of the pinna (external ear). There is no evidence to support this, but anecdotally it’s conceivable how it may help with neurosensory feedback altering the pain signals. There’s no risk, so if it helps your child feel better, by all means do it!

No evidence, no risk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_5BWjcNpOQ&t=2s

Steamed Onion Compress

There’s two pathways that work here: the local heat which stimulates blood flow and relaxes tight muscles, and the vaporized quercetin from the onion. The first can certainly provide comfort, and the latter has in vitro and mouse study support as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, but no human clinical trials. 

Similar to the “Nike Swoosh” method there is little downside when done safely, so if it provides comfort then it’s certainly reasonable to add to your toolbox of options during the watchful waiting period. 

It should not be used instead of recommended antibiotics for serious infections, and I would not recommend using onion juice. 

How to make an onion compress:

1. Cut a large onion in half (leave skin on to hold it together)

2. Steam or microwave with a few drops of water until soft and warm throughout 

3. Warp in a thin, clean cloth

4. Always test the temperature on your inner wrist first to ensure it won’t burn the skin

5. Hold the cloth-wrapped onion directly over the painful ear for 10-15 minutes 

No human evidence

Pain reduction

Low risk (except heat risk/burn)

PMID 29568908

Salt Sock

This is similar to the onion compress, but a dry version. You could also use a rice sock or flaxseed pad. Local heat and mild pressure are the benefits here, and may be safer than an electric heating pad. 

• Heat up 1 c of coarse sea salt in microwave or skillet (warm but not too hot)

• Pour into a clean, white sock (not colored; thread dye can melt if heated)

• Tie a knot at the end of the sock

• Press warm salt sock against the ear for 10-15 min

• Repeat for relief as needed

No evidence

Pain reduction

Low risk (except heat risk/burn)

Castor Oil Massage

The idea behind castor oil massage is that castor oil can penetrate the skin and may help reduce local inflammation and increase blood flow to the area, which could support the body’s natural inflammatory and immune response.

Most castor oil massage evidence pertains to smooth muscle effects in the treatment of constipation and labor induction, not the head and neck region. However, if you find it supportive and comforting there’s relatively low risk. 

No evidence, low risk (GI cramping/nausea)

Vibration Plate

There is support for vibration plates accelerating general lymphatic flow, but no evidence specific to head and neck lymphatics or ear infections. Experts note that while whole-body vibration successfully increases microcirculation and moves fluid, a brisk walk achieves a very similar physiological result (and has other benefits…and is cheaper).  So, if you have one it certainly won’t hurt, but they are expensive and not a necessary purchase. 

No evidence, high financial “risk”

Ozone Therapy

The idea behind ozone therapy for ear infections is that ozone has antimicrobial properties and theoretically could help reduce bacteria, viruses, and inflammation in the ear. However, there are no human clinical trials and a higher risk of injury (eardrum perforation, middle ear damage, inhalation injury). 

If this is a therapy you choose, make sure it’s performed by a qualified healthcare provider. 

No evidence, high risk

Cutting Out Dairy

People used to point to this systematic review saying there is no evidence for a link between cow milk protein allergy (CMPA) and otitis media (PMID 34716104). However in 2026 a very large chart review of over 10 million (!!!) kids did show a correlation between CMPA and increased risk of ear infection.  

Dairy alone hasn’t been proven to increase mucus, but there is definitely something making people feel that way (PMID 301788886). So here’s the catch: what if the symptoms are not due to an IgE mediated allergic reaction like CMPA? 

One theory is that if the nose and throat are already inflamed from things like allergies, reflux, or an infection, the A1 protein found in some dairy products may trigger processes that affect mucus production and release, making congestion feel worse. Chronic inflammation can also lead to more mucus-producing glands, so when mucus production is triggered, there may simply be more of it.

In clinical practice, Dr. Lee has observed that there seems to be a dose-dependent effect, meaning children who eat more dairy (particularly more than 2–3 servings per day) may be more likely to notice a difference during a 6-week dairy-free trial. Anecdotally, some children who seem sensitive to dairy improve when it’s temporarily removed. Dairy can then be slowly reintroduced to see how much the individual child tolerates before symptoms return.

Low evidence

Reduce number of infections, faster recovery

Moderate risk (if a child is very picky, restricting them further can be a problem nutritionally; you can also find A2 dairy to substitute with in cases of a “sensitivity” but not a true CMPA)

PMID 41806272, 19932941

Acupuncture

There’s no human trials to date (one animal study often cited). There is one study showing decreased postoperative pain when used in conjunction with ear tube surgery (PMID 19709377). 

Saline Spray

While the other benefits of saline spray are amazing, there’s no evidence that it treats existing otitis media. However, it’s incredibly helpful in prevention (see below). 

No evidence / low risk

Nasal Steroid Spray & Antihistamines

No evidence of benefit for otitis media with effusion (doesn’t speed up recovery). 

PMID 31486909

How To Prevent Ear Infections

While ear infections can’t always be prevented, there are several factors that may influence how often they occur. Prevention is largely about looking at the bigger picture, identifying potential risk factors, and supporting healthy Eustachian tube function and drainage.

Let’s take a look at some of the options to consider.

Get Mucus Thin and Moving

This is one of the best things you can do. Keeping mucus thin and moving supports healthy ear drainage. When mucus becomes thick or congestion builds up, the Eustachian tubes can become blocked, trapping fluid behind the eardrum and creating an environment where viruses and bacteria can contribute to an infection.

• Nebulizing saline

• Saline spray/drops

• Nasal irrigation / high volume rinse

• Humidifier 

The 2015 Cochrane review and other studies endorse the benefit of saline to accomplish reduced symptoms, reduce medications needed, and it’s very safe. Studies show a decreased number of infections and decreased need for antibiotics. PMID 32312677, 31214553

It’s best used as a daily preventative therapy in children prone to ear infections.

• 0-2yr salines drops 

• 2-5yr saline spray

• 5yr+ low pressure, high volume rinse like Neilmed bottle 

  
  

Breastfeeding

Breast milk provides antibodies and other immune-supporting components that help protect against the respiratory infections that often lead to ear infections.

Additionally, the mechanics and positioning of breastfeeding also supports healthier Eustachian tube function compared with bottle-feeding, particularly when bottles are given while a baby is lying flat. The protective effect appears strongest with exclusive breastfeeding for the first 3-6 months of life. 

Vitamin D

If deficient, Vitamin D supplementation reduces the number of respiratory viral illnesses and complications including ear infections (PMID 26871802, 38828931). Maintaining vitamin D blood levels of at least 30 ng/mL may offer some protection against respiratory infections and related ear infections.

*I like Seeking Health. It’s the most budget friendly, quality option I have found. 1 drop is 500 IU, so it can be used for the whole family. 

Bottle Feed in an Upright Position 

This helps reduce reflux of milk through the Eustachian tube. Milk that collects in the middle ear lacks the antibodies in breastmilk and therefore serves as a warm nutrient rich environment for bacteria to multiply quickly. 

A 30-45 degree angle is recommended when feeding, and staying upright 20-30 minutes after a bottle. PMID 29700412

Limiting Pacifier Use

Frequent or extended pacifier use can increase the risk of ear infections because sucking creates pressure changes in the mouth and throat that can affect the Eustachian tubes. In young children, whose Eustachian tubes are already small and more horizontal, this can make it easier for fluid and germs to become trapped behind the eardrum.

Aim to wean between 6-12 months, and be completely pacifier free by 18 months (AAP guidelines).

PCV (Vaccine)

A 2020 Cochrane review included 11 randomized trials and more than 60,000 children. It found that PCVs substantially reduced ear infections caused specifically by Streptococcus pneumoniae. PCV7 reduced pneumococcal AOM by about 20–25% in two trials, while some PCV10/11 studies found reductions of roughly 50%. However, the reduction in all-cause ear infections was much smaller and less consistent, around 6–15%.

Another particularly strong randomized, double-blind trial followed 1,662 infants and found vaccination reduced vaccine-strain pneumococcal ear infections by 57%, but all ear infections by only 6%.

*This is not advice on whether or not you should vaccinate. Consult with your provider. 

Echinacea

Echinacea is a powerful herb best known for supporting the immune system, especially when taken at the first sign of illness. It can help the body fight infections more effectively by supporting white blood cell activity, which can reduce the severity and duration of colds and other illnesses. Echinacea also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular herbal support option for things like sore throats, bronchitis, insect bites, and overall immune health.

• Echinacea tincture

• Echinacea drops (2yr+)

• Echinacea tablets (6yr+) *get the regular (not extra strength) for kids

Since echinacea, when used consistently, can reduce the number of respiratory tract infections, it can also reduce the number of its complications including ear infections (PMID 25784510).

Xylitol

There is moderate quality evidence suggesting xylitol reduces the number of ear infections in this Cochrane review (PMID 27486835). Evidence favors gum, which may be hard to monitor in toddlers and not appropriate for infants. 

Probiotics

Evidence is conflicting, with some studies showing benefit and others none. Evidence favors transnasal route over oral route, and may favor treating formula fed infants. The strains of benefit include Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12, Streptococcus salivarius K12.

Autoinflation 

Devices like the Eustachi, Otovent, and EarFlo are designed to be used during congestion/when ears feel congested. They gently help open the Eustachian tubes using a technique called autoinflation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g27cUd5tOfA

Research supports their use for lingering fluid behind the eardrum (otitis media with effusion) rather than an active, pus-filled ear infection. Studies suggest they may help the fluid clear faster and potentially reduce the need for ear tubes.

Each device works a little differently, and some require more cooperation from the child than others. Overall, the evidence is moderate and the risk is low. 

PMID 37750500, 42296786

When Are Ear Tubes Warranted?

1. There’s fluid behind the eardrum when your child is examined. For children with recurrent ear infections, the presence of middle-ear fluid at the time of the ENT evaluation is an important part of deciding whether tubes are appropriate.

2. Your child is having frequent ear infections. This generally means 3 or more separate ear infections within 6 months, or 4 or more within 12 months (with at least one occurring in the past 6 months).

3. Fluid behind the eardrum isn’t clearing. If middle-ear fluid sticks around for 3 months or longer, especially when it causes hearing difficulties, discomfort, balance problems, or other symptoms, tubes may be considered.

4. Your child is at higher risk for problems from persistent ear fluid. Doctors may consider tubes sooner for children who are at increased risk for speech, language, or developmental difficulties, including some children with craniofacial differences or certain genetic/developmental conditions.

Once a child meets the criteria for surgery, the decision ultimately comes down to what works best for that child and family. Some families may be ready and able to make changes to nutrition, incorporate daily OMT, adjust childcare, reduce smoke exposure, or explore other supportive measures. Others may not have the ability, resources, or circumstances to make those changes, and they should feel equally supported if surgery is the best option for their child at that time. The algorithm below may be helpful in making this decision. 

How Do Ear Tubes Work?

Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) act as a bypass system. By opening a controlled hole in the eardrum, fluid can no longer build up in the middle ear space to cause pressure, pain, hearing loss, or increase risk of spontaneous rupture. 

Ear tubes do not treat the underlying problem of Eustachian tube dysfunction, but they do allow time for the child to grow and the tube to develop a more favorable position as well as time for the child’s immune system to become better able to clear infections quickly and completely.

Even with tubes, a child may continue to experience ear infections but they should be less frequent, less severe with little to no pain, resolve more quickly, and reduce the risk of long term complications.

Another benefit is it allows a route for topical antibiotics to treat any future infections.  Topical drops avoid the concerning impact of repetitive oral antibiotics on the gut microbiome and reduce medication side effects.

Tubes typically fall out of the eardrum into the ear canal after about 12-18 months, and are removed naturally with wax or in the office by a clinician. 

No water precautions are necessary. 

https://aao-hnsfjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1177/01945998211065663

What Are the Risks of Ear Tubes?

Anesthesia

Most risks are tied to the general anesthesia typically needed for the surgery.  In some cases, families and clinicians may choose an in-office insertion to avoid anesthesia altogether. 

As noted above, ear tubes do not “cure” ear infections; they reduce symptoms, allow for faster recovery, help prevent fluid from becoming “stuck” behind the eardrum and causing complications, and provide the option to treat infections with topical rather than oral antibiotics.

Drainage

Drainage from the ear (otorrhea) is fairly common after ear tubes, but it’s usually temporary. A small percentage of children may develop drainage that continues or keeps coming back, which can sometimes be related to bacterial biofilms on the tube and may require different antibiotic treatment or, occasionally, replacement of the tube. Research also suggests that children who receive multiple courses of oral antibiotics before tube placement may have a higher risk of ongoing drainage afterward.

Structural Change

Structural changes such as scarring (myringosclerosis) or thinning of the drum are also common, but typically don't impair hearing. However, roughly 3% of kids may have a persistent eardrum perforation that requires surgical repair later.

Tubes that last longer than 2.5-3 years should be removed to reduce the risk of a persistent perforation. This occurs in 5-15% of kids. 

Cholesteatoma

There is a possible increased risk of cholesteatoma (<1%; a skin cyst behind the eardrum) that could require future surgery, but most clinicians feel it’s a case of this occurring “despite” ear tubes not “because” of ear tubes in someone who is high risk. 

There is no proven risk of long term sensorineural hearing loss due to tube placement. 

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Dr. Jessica Lee is a double board-certified Otolaryngologist–Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT) and Lifestyle Medicine physician specializing in integrative approaches to chronic ear, sinonasal and throat disease. As founder of Integrative ENT Health, she combines conventional ENT care with evidence-based integrative therapies to help patients with chronic inflammatory conditions optimize both symptoms and long-term health. 

Dr. Lee has published and spoken nationally on topics including chronic rhinosinusitis, airway health, reflux, and the gut-airway connection, with a strong emphasis on patient-centered, multidisciplinary care. 

She is an adjunct professor at Medical University of South Carolina, serves on the AAO-HNS Committee for Integrative Medicine, and has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Docto