Eustachian Tube Dysfunction & Treatment
The Eustachian tube connects your middle ear with the back of your nose. It contains a valve that opens and closes to allow air to move in and out and regulate ear pressure. If this tube becomes clogged or infected because the valve remains open or closed for too long, you can experience a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
- Ear pain
- Pressure
- Fullness
- Popping or cracking
- Ringing
- Clogged ear feeling
- Muffled hearing
Allergies and sinusitis can cause inflammation in the Eustachian tube that leads to this condition. You can also develop an ear infection if this condition persists which will require antibiotics. Often, ETD will clear up on its own after you yawn, chew or swallow. You may also find relief by using saline nasal sprays or irrigation systems.
If these methods are ineffective, our ear, nose and throat doctors in Phoenix may recommend balloon dilation procedures.
What to Expect During Balloon Dilation Treatments for ETD
Balloon dilation treatments are a minimally-invasive way to open and clear the Eustachian tubes for people who have persistent ETD. During the procedure, a small catheter with a deflated balloon is inserted into the nose and directed to the Eustachian tube. Once in proper position, the balloon is gently inflated for 2 minutes. This opens the Eustachian tube so air can move freely in and out. The balloon is then deflated and removed.
We use the ACCLARENT AREA® Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System created by Acclarent as well as the XprESS® balloon dilation device from Stryker and to help our patients find relief from their painful symptoms.
What to Expect After Balloon Dilation Treatments for ETD
Most patients only need a day or two to recover from ETD balloon dilation and some start to experience relief right away. There is typically no bruising or swelling, but you may experience congestion or mild discomfort. Daily saline nasal rinses will help minimize crusting and promote healing.
You Have Questions: We Have Answers
When you come in for your appointment, we’ll cover commonly asked questions about Eustachian tube treatment such as:
- Why is my ear popping?
- Why can I hear my own breathing?
- Where is the Eustachian tube located?
- Does balloon dilation hurt?
- Does balloon dilation help ear pain?
- And many more
To find out if you have Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and find out if Eustachian Tube treatment in Phoenix is right for your unique situation, contact our office today at (602) 956-1250 or click here to request an appointment.