Do your ears always feel full? Do you have difficulty popping them? Do they crackle? If so, it can lead to more than temporary discomfort. Full ears can be a symptom of eustachian tube dysfunction. This can be a very debilitating condition with a range of unpleasant hearing symptoms, including loss of hearing. Whilst it can go away on its own, the sufferer may feel very ill, or disoriented, during this time. For other people, the symptoms may be prolonged and acute. For this reason, you should see a specialist otolaryngologist if your ears feel full all the time, or if you have other symptoms relating to eustachian tube dysfunction.
What Is The Eustachian Tube?
Each ear has a eustachian tube, which is a thin tube that connects the middle ear (space behind the eardrum) with the back of the throat. The Eustachian tubes are designed to balance the pressure within the middle ear space. Under normal function, pressure inside and outside the ear is equal. Some circumstances can lead to an imbalance of pressure however, such as being at a high altitude. In these conditions the eustachian tube acts to equalize the pressures.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Eustachian tube dysfunction occurs when the tube does not properly control pressure in the middle ear space. This results in the characteristic ear fullness that sufferers experience. This sensation can become very painful. Patients with eustachian tube dysfunction may also suffer from balance problems, hearing impairment, or ringing in the ears.
What Causes Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
The most common cause of eustachian tube dysfunction is a swelling of the tube that prevents it from opening and closing properly. This can often follow an upper respiratory infection such as cold and flu, although it may also be related to sinusitis, post nasal drip, or allergic reactions.
Treating The Dysfunction
Some sufferers find that the condition goes away within a few days if left on its own, but expert medical help should be sought if symptoms persist. Your otolaryngologist will be able to diagnose the cause of the dysfunction and then find the most effective treatment. This will involve talking to the patient about the symptoms, as well as an ear, nose and throat examination. Allergy, hearing and other testing may also be ordered. Treatments are often quite effective, but vary depending on the source of the problem. Prescription nasal sprays, and allergy treatments may be indicated. Alternatively antibiotics may be prescribed if a sinus infection is identified. In some cases, office based “Eustachian Tube Insufflation” can provide instant relief. In any case, thorough examination by an otolaryngologist is a good first step, so that the proper treatment regimen can be started.
Dr. Samuel S. Becker, Director of Rhinology at The Becker ENT Center, is a highly trained, board-certified specialist. He practices as an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor in New Jersey and Philadelphia.
Pinstripe Magazine Staff
Online Men’s Lifestyle Magazine on Gear, Grooming, Girls, Gadgets
