Blocked Eustachian Tube

An eustachian tube is a long, narrow channel that connects the middle ear to the upper throat region, above the palate. Each ear has one eustachian tube and this structure is responsible for maintaining the air pressure inside the middle ear. Apart from that, eustachian tubes helps the ear in draining fluid. These tubes are around one and a half inches in length. In normal cases, the eustachian tube is closed, but opens periodically to allow the entry of air into the middle ear and at the same time, the mucus from the middle ear drains out. This maintains the air pressure and prevents mucus accumulation in the middle ear. However, any blockage in the eustachian tube interferes with its functions, causing various symptoms. Scroll down to know more about blocked eustachian tube causes, symptoms and treatment.

Blocked Eustachian Tube Causes and Symptoms

A blockage in the eustachian tube can be caused by various reasons. Such blockages result in air pressure changes and fluid accumulation in the middle ear. The most common causes for this condition are common cold, allergies, sinus infections, throat infections, etc. In case of an infection, the lining of the eustachian tube gets swollen, thus causing a blockage. The thick mucus, that gets accumulated during cold is another reason for a blocked eustachian tube. A blockage of the eustachian tube can also be caused by a condition called glue ear, wherein the middle ear gets filled with a glue-like fluid. The eustachian tube may get blocked during activities, like, scuba diving, swimming, flying, trekking, etc. In most cases, a blocked eustachian tube is often accompanied by ear pain, swelling, poor hearing, congestion in the ears, etc. Fever (usually in case of infections), dizziness, popping noises in the ear and tinnitus can occur as a result of blocked eustachian tubes. Blocked eustachian tube is a condition, which is mostly found in young children, as they have shorter eustachian tubes, which are prone to blockage.

Treatment for Blocked Eustachian Tube

In most cases, no treatment is required, as the symptoms subside within a few days. However, severe cases of blocked eustachian tube need medical attention to avoid complications. The treatment for this condition is decided as per the severity. Usually, decongestant nasal drops/sprays, antihistamine tablets and steroid nasal sprays are prescribed. Antibiotics will also be administered in case of infection. Decongestant sprays or drops are given for those with nasal congestion due to cold and other such conditions, but should not be used for more than a week. Antihistamines and steroid sprays are usually given for patients with allergies and inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be required to fix the problem.

If the condition is mild, simple exercises can act as blocked eustachian tube remedy. You may resort to opening and closing of the mouth, blowing the nose gently, chewing gum and yawning. All these activities can help to open the blocked eustachian tube. You may also use heating pads to soothe pain. Some people use warm oil, (heated with garlic) as ear drops to reduce ear pain associated with blocked eustachian tube. Garlic is very popular for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and analgesic properties. Now, you have a basic idea about blocked eustachian tube causes, symptoms and treatment. However, it is better to avoid self-medication and in case of severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.