Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

By Melanie King, AuD

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) is characterized by symptoms of aural (ear) pain, discomfort, and/or fullness. The Eustachian tube connects the air-filled space behind the eardrum, called the middle ear space, to the back of the nose and throat, referred to as the nasopharynx. The purpose of the Eustachian tube is to equalize middle ear pressure with outside environmental pressure. Most people have experienced the proper functioning of the Eustachian tube while ascending/descending on an airplane when the ear “pops” in an attempt to equalize pressure changes.

The Eustachian tube may inappropriately remain open or closed, or create “clicking/popping” sounds from random opening/closing without any outside changes in pressure. Two of the most common causes of ETD, is due to allergies or following varying degrees of ear infection (otitis media). For most patients suffering from mild ETD, alleviation may be temporarily obtained by utilizing the valsalva maneuver (holding the nose and blowing, which forces air from the back of the throat in order to force the Eustachian tube open).

Persistent cases of ETD may be treated with medications for allergies such as decongestants, systemic or local antihistamines and nasal topical steroids under the guidance and recommendation of your health care professional. Relief has also been obtained with saltwater nasal irrigations. More severe cases of ETD may require an otolaryngologist to surgically insert a pressure equalizing ventilation tube in the eardrum. Your audiologist or otolaryngologist can diagnose ETD through specific testing of middle ear pressure and eardrum mobility.

If you or someone you know has suffered from ear pain, discomfort and/or fullness, an audiologic evaluation is recommended to rule out ETD and/or hearing loss.