The impact of ear disease and hearing impairment on the lives of Nepali patients in Pokhara: a qualitative study.

Background: Ear disease in Nepal is a common problem which, left untreated, can cause serious complications such as hearing impairment (HI). Evidence shows that HI is associated with educational difficulties, employment problems and social isolation. Currently, there is little qualitative literature investigating the long-term impact of ear disease, and none specifically reporting on Nepali populations.