Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and its Effect on Hearing
2% of adults aged between 45 to 54 are diagnosed with disabling hearing loss. For those between the 55 to 64 age brackets, the percentage rises to 8.5%. 25% of people aged between 65 to 74 suffer from hearing loss. By the time the demographic touches 75, a staggering 50% of them have disabling hearing loss.
Do you, too, face trouble hearing when someone speaks to you? Maybe you also experience a faint but constant pain in the ear? These could be signs that you have eustachian tube dysfunction. We recommend seeing an ENT doctor immediately.
What is the Eustachian Tube?
Eustachian tubes are responsible for draining fluid and equalizing the internal air pressure in the ears. These tubes extend from the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat and are located on either side of the face.
Eustachian tubes usually remain closed throughout the day, but they open when the individual yawns, chews, or swallows.
They got their name from the Italian physician Bartolomeo Eustachi who discovered the existence of these tubes.
Apart from draining the excess fluids that the middle ear secretes, ventilating the ear canal, and equalizing internal air pressure, the eustachian tubes are also tasked with protecting your ear from disease-causing fungi and other pathogens. Taking good care of your eustachian tube and visiting your ENT doctor regularly is an integral part of good ear health.
What Entails Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Eustachian tube dysfunctions, abbreviated to ETD(s), occur when the tubes cease to function properly, resulting in an accumulation of fluid. This, in turn, causes earache and infections.
The 3 most common ETDs include -
Patulous ETD
Caused by the eustachian tube staying open when it shouldn’t. In this condition, the person may be able to hear their own breathing or voice too loudly. Some even report being able to hear their blood pumping.
Patulous ETD occurs due to chronic nasal allergies, GERD, neuromuscular diseases, and even rapid weight loss.
Obstructive ETD
Occurs when the eustachian tube does not open properly. This directly results in the excess fluid building up and causing pain and discomfort. Obstructive ETD is most commonly caused by acid reflux, allergies, sinusitis, or ear tumors.
Baro-challenge-induced ETD
Takes place only when traveling in the air, scuba diving, climbing mountains, and other activities that involve a sudden and drastic change in atmospheric pressure. The symptoms are similar to Obstructive ETD, and the condition is temporary.
Treatment Options for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Thankfully, in the majority of the cases, eustachian tube dysfunction cures itself on its own. Meanwhile, you can resort to medication and avoid triggers to find relief. However, there are some cases of severe and chronic eustachian tube dysfunction where ear, nose, and throat specialists suggest surgical intervention.
Another critical point we want to discuss is the usage of antihistamines and decongestants to help with symptoms of ETD. They can indeed offer temporary respite, but in a lot of people, the condition may aggravate further.
Best ENT Doctors in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, LLC has 35 years of experience in providing its patients with outstanding ear care. If you have symptoms of a eustachian tube dysfunction that refuses to go away even after a week, you should contact our ear, nose, and throat specialists via our patient portal.
**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.