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Eustachian Tube Blockage
Medical Questions » Eustachian Tube Blockage
| Name: Eustachian Tube Blockage |
| Also known as: |
| Blockage of the Eustachian tube which runs from the middle ear to the back of the nose, and is used to equalise air pressure between the middle ear and the outside air with changes in altitude. |
Causes of Eustachian Tube Blockage
Any condition which causes the excess production of phlegm (eg. common cold, sinusitis, hay fever), particularly if there is a sudden change in altitude (eg. flying). |
Symptoms of Eustachian Tube Blockage
Pressure discomfort in the ear that may become painful, deafness and a constant feeling that swallowing will ease the discomfort. Worsened by changes in altitude. |
Tests for Eustachian Tube Blockage
Bulging ear drum can be seen using an otoscope (magnifying light). Sometimes specific pressure tests are carried out on the ear drum. |
Treatment for Eustachian Tube Blockage
Steam inhalations, medications (eg. pseudoephedrine, bromhexine), decongestant nasal sprays and valsalva manoeuvre (holding the nose, closing mouth and trying to breathe out to force air into the ears). In persistent cases a small slit may be put in the ear drum (myringotomy) to ease the pressure.
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Complications of Eustachian Tube Blockage of its treatment
If altitude changes, ear drum may burst. Persistent blockage may lead to a middle ear infection (otitis media). |
Likely Outcome of Eustachian Tube Blockage
Settles slowly without treatment, and slightly faster with treatment, but may persist for weeks. |
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