Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Scotch Institute of Ear Nose & Throat’s centers in Wesley Chapel and Trinity, Florida, provide expert care to patients with Eustachian tube dysfunction—an uncomfortable condition that affects the small tube that runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat and nose.
Causes
Eustachian tube dysfunction can result from a blocked or infected Eustachian tube. This blockage or infection is often caused by the common cold, a sinus infection, or allergies, as these conditions can trigger inflammation and mucus buildup in one or both Eustachian tubes. In other cases, altitude changes from flying, driving through mountainous areas, or simply riding an elevator can contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction can range from mild and temporary to severe and persistent. A few of the most common signs include:
- A sensation of fullness or plugged-up feeling in the ears
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Ear pain or tenderness
- Impaired hearing
- A tingling sensation in the ears
- Difficulty balancing
Treatment Options
In many patients with altitude-related Eustachian tube dysfunction, treatment is as simple as yawning or chewing gum to release pressure in the ears. For others, relief from symptoms can be found through over-the-counter or prescription medications, including antibiotics. If a patient has recurrent or disruptive symptoms, he or she may undergo a minimally invasive procedure to drain built-up fluid or insert very small pressure-equalization tubes (PETs) into the ears.
You can receive comprehensive treatment for Eustachian tube dysfunction at Scotch Institute of Ear Nose & Throat in Wesley Chapel or Trinity. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or reserve an appointment time on our website. Telemedicine services are also available—give our friendly professionals a call today for more information.
