eustachian tube obstruction

Etiology

• upper respiratory tract infection
• sinus infection
• allergies
• enlarged adenoid can block nasal opening of eustachian tube
• neoplasm (rare)
• smoking damages cilia that clears mucus

Epidemiology

• most common in children due to
  • smaller diameter of eustachian tube
  • more horizontal orientation
  • proximity of the nasal opening to the adenoid

Pathology

• problems regulating inner ear pressure

Clinical manifestations

• ear fullness
• mild hearing loss
• tinnitus
• altitude changes or air travel exacerbate symptoms

Management

• simple maneuvers may suffice
  • swallowing, chewing, drinking, eating
  • yawning most effective simple maneuver
  • take a deep breath & blow against pinched nostrils with closed mouth
• decongestant may be helpful
• severe cases:
  • a pressure equalization tube can be surgically placed in the tympanic membrane to relieve pressure in the middle ear

More general terms

• eustachian tube disorder

Additional terms

• eustachian tube; auditory tube; pharyngotympanic tube