Eustachian Tube Problems (Ear Tube Dysfunction, Blockage)
The Eustachian tube originates from the rear of the nose adjacent to the soft palateand runs a slightly stern course, also ends at the middle ear space.
The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear space to the rear of their nose near the soft palate. The middle ear space could be that the hollowed out portion of the skull bone which contains the hearing apparatus and can be covered on one side by the eardrum.
Cartilage provides the supporting arrangement for its first two-thirds of this Eustachian tube, together with the last third (the part closest to the middle ear space) being made from bone.
In adults, the Eustachian tube is approximately 3-5 mm long (1.3 inches) and approximately 3 millimeters in diameter (less than 1/10 inch).
The tissue which lines the Eustachian tube is similar to this inside the nasal cavity and may respond exactly the same way (swelling and mucus production) when presented with similar stimulation.
Normally, the Eustachian tube has been closed, however it might be partially or completely blocked because a consequence of common coughing or allergies.
- Partial or total blockage of the Eustachian tube could cause sensations of popping, clickingear fullness.
- Altitude changes might cause symptoms in persons using Eustachian tube problems.
- Several maneuvers might be done in order to improve Eustachian tube function.
- The Eustachian tube has been named in honor of this 16th century Italian anatomist Eustachius. Sources credit Almaceon of Sparta as the first to describe the structure in approximately 400 BC.
What is the function of the Eustachian tube? What exactly does it look like (images )? )
The primary function of the Eustachian tube will be always to ventilate the middle ear space, ensuring its pressure remains at near normal environmental atmosphere pressure.
The secondary function of the Eustachian tube will be always to empty any accumulated secretions, infection, or debris out of the middle ear space. Several small muscles located at the back part of the neck and palate control the opening and closing of their Eustachian tube.
What causes Eustachian tube dysfunction or blockage?
The Eustachian tube could be blocked, or obstructed, to get a variety of reasons, for example:
Probably the most common cause is that a”cold” (top notch respiratory infection).
Sinus infections along with allergies may also cause swelling of the tissue lining that the Eustachian tube. Simply put, a stuffy nose contributes to stuffy ears.
Children are particularly prone to Eustachian tube blockage because their tubes are thinner in diameter, so more horizontal in orientation, and closer at the nasal opening of the Eustachian tube into the adenoids.
Adenoid tissue at the back part of the nose near the Eustachian tube can act like a reservoir for bacteria, contributing to recurrent ear infections. Enlarged adenoids obstructing the opening of the Eustachian tube may also show up. Adenoid removal (adenoidectomy) is frequently recommended in children who have chronic ear infections (chronic otitis media).
Rarely, legends or tumors at the skull base or nasopharynx often leads to Eustachian tube obstruction.
Excessively small Eustachian tubes (as may afflict children with down-syndrome )
Smoking is associated with damage to the cilia which sweep debris and debris out of the middle ear space via the Eustachian tube into the back part of the nose at which it may be expelled.
Causes of Eustachian tube dysfunction range between allergies to excessively small Eustachian tubes (as may afflict children with Down Syndrome).
Middle Ear Infection Symptoms
In general, adults having a ear infection may have one or more of those symptoms and signs:
- Ringing in ears
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea and/or vomiting.
What are the signs and symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction or blockage?
People Who Have a few Eustachian tube dysfunction may experience signs and symptoms, such as example:
- Intermittent ear fullness
- Ear popping or cracking
- Mild hearing reduction (an attenuation of noise )
- Ringing in the ears (Illness )
- Occasional bad balance
What home remedies help clear Eustachian tube blockage?
Several maneuvers may be done in order to clear Eustachian tube and therefore help with equalization of air pressure.
The simple act of swallowing activates the muscles at the back part of the neck which help start the Eustachian tube. Any activity that promotes swallowing might help open the Eustachian tube, as an example, chewing gum, drinking, or eating.
Yawning is a lot better because it’s really a stronger muscle activator.
In the event the ears feel full, then the person can attempt and forcibly open the Eustachian tube by as taking a deep breath and then blowing off while pinching your nostrils and closing your mouth area. When a”soda” is felt, you know that you have succeeded. If problems persist even though trying to forcibly open the tubes you may need to seek out medical attention. If you’re feeling dizzy performing this maneuver then discontinue and discuss with your physician.
For those who have a cold, sinus infection, ear infection, or even suffering from allergies, it may be advisable to postpone aviation.
Similarly, individuals with Eustachian tube problems may find such sports like diving painful, as well as in a number of situations quite dangerous.
Infants traveling airplanes cannot intentionally pop up their ears but may do this if they’re sucking a bottle or pacifier. Crying, similar in function to yawning, may even enable equalization of air pressure.
What is the medical treatment for clearing Eustachian tube dysfunction or blockage?
Many people who have Eustachian tube blockage or dysfunction that traveling make use of a decongestant pill or nasal spray one hour before takeoff, of course, when necessary, just before descent. The decongestant acts to shrink the membranes lining the nose and throat, so allowing the ears to equalize longer easily.
Similarly, people experiencing chronic everyday problems with Eustachian tube dysfunction may benefit by aggressive control of allergies (such as anti histamines , decongestants( and prescription nasal sprays).
Acid reflux disorder control may be help several people if their stomach is still irritating the lining at the back part of the nose along with Eustachian tube opening.
An evaluation using an Infection specialist or Allergist may be helpful in diagnosing the cause of the Eustachian tube dysfunction or blockage.