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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
Related
eustachian tube; auditory tube; pharyngotympanic tube
General
eustachian tube disorder
References
- MedicineNet: Eustachian Tube Problems
http://www.medicinenet.com/eustachian_tube_problems/page2.htm