A detailed description of Eustachian tube dysfunction: the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment methods.For more information, please visit www.everydayhearing.com

1. What is Eustachian Tube
Dysfunction?

2. What is the Eustachian Tube?
The Eustachian Tube is a small tube that connects
the air-filled middle ear to the back of the nose and
throat (nasopharynx).

3. Function of the Eustachian Tube
3 Main Functions:
1. Equalizes air pressure between the middle
ear and nasopharynx.
2. Protects the middle ear from nasopharyngeal
secretions and loud sounds.
3. Ventilation and drainage of the middle ear.

4. What is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction occurs when the
Eustachian tube does not open and close
properly to allow drainage and ventilation of the
middle ear.
This causes a build up of pressure and/or
mucous in the middle ear and can lead to a
middle ear infection (otitis media).

5. What Causes Eustachian Tube
Dysfunction?
2 Main Causes:
1. Upper respiratory infection, sinus infection, or
allergies causes a swelling in the lining of the
tissues of the Eustachian Tube.
2. Rapid change in outside air pressure, such as
when descending in an airplane or scuba diving.
In rare cases, a mass or tumor in the nasopharynx
can cause Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.

6. What are the Symptoms?
• Pressure or fullness in the ear
• “Clicking” or “popping” noises in the ear
• Temporary hearing loss
• Pain in the ear (otalagia)

7. How is it Diagnosed?
3 Common Tests:
Pneumatic Otoscopy
A “puff” of air is delivered into the ear. If movement of the eardrum can be
visualized then the Eustachian tube function is likely normal.
Tympanometry
Measures middle ear pressure with a pressure change delivered to the ear canal.
Nasopharyngoscope
A mirrored scope is inserted down the nose to rule out a mass in the
nasopharyngeal space.
Other tests for Eustachian tube dysfunction may include: imaging, Eustachian
tube catheterization, Valsalva and Toynbee tests.

8. How is it Treated?
Self-treatment using the Valsalva maneuver
This is done by pinching the nose, closing the mouth and blowing. If dizziness
occurs during or immediately after performing the Valsalva maneuver, see a
physician.
Treatment of the underlying ailment (upper
respiratory infection, sinus infection, or allergies)
Typical treatments are antihistamines, decongestants, or prescription nasal
sprays.
Pressure Equalization Tube (PE Tube)
Surgically inserted into the eardrum to equalize middle ear pressure.

9. Can Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
cause lasting problems?
Unresolved Eustachian Tube Dysfunction can
lead to a middle ear infection (otitis media).

10. Resources:
http://earpopper.com/
http://www.amplivox.ltd.uk/amplivox-otowave-102-and-auditbase-connectivity/