Eustachian Tube: How to Clear a Clogged Eustachian Tube

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So what’s behind those stuffy ears? Before delving into one of the most common ailments seen by doctors, one must first know the ins and outs of that little-known but very important part of the body that goes by the name “Eustachian tube.” Named after the 16th century Italian anatomist, Eustachius, the Eustachian tube, also called auditory tube or pharyngotympanic tube, is a tube that links the pharynx to the middle ear. Approximately 1.3 inches long and less than 1/10 inch in diameter in adults, the tube extends from the anterior wall of the middle ear to the lateral wall of the nasopharynx, about at the level of the interior nasal concha. The first two-thirds of the tube are composed of cartilage, while the last third, the part closest to the middle ear space is made of bone.

The Eustachian tube primarily serves to ventilate the middle ear space, ensuring that its pressure remains consistent with the normal ambience or surrounding air pressure. Its secondary role is to drain any accumulated secretions, infection or debris from the middle ear space. The Eustachian tube’s opening and closing is regulated by contractions of the muscles at the back of the throat and palate – contractions induced by swallowing and yawning. With a properly functioning Eustachian tube, the middle ear cavity will not be vulnerable to every change in air pressure and the ear remains healthy.

But the Eustachian tube can become dysfunctional, too. This happens when the tube which is normally closed to prevent the middle ear space from being contaminated by the normal secretions found in the back of the nose remains open and results in chronic ear infection. Another way the Eustachian tube becomes dysfunctional is when it fails to regulate air pressure and is partially or completely blocked. A person suffering from such a dysfunction will feel sensations of popping, clicking and ear fullness. Eventually, if nothing is done and the air pressure in the middle ear falls, the affected individual’s ear will feel full and sounds will begin to seem muffled. As the situation worsens, a vacuum will be created, causing fluid to enter the middle ear and produce ear infection.

There are many reasons why the Eustachian tube may become blocked, including: upper respiratory infection (the common cold), sinus infections or allergies which may cause the swelling of the tissue lining the Eustachian tube, the possibility of an enlarged adenoid which is a mass of lymphoid tissue at the very back of the nose in the roof of the nasopharynx obstructing the opening of the Eustachian tube, and, rarely, masses or tumors in the skull base or nasopharynx. Children are especially prone to Eustachian tube blockage because their tubes are narrower in diameter, more horizontal in orientation, and closer to the nasal opening of the Eustachian tube than to the adenoid.

Altitude change during air travel also impacts the Eustachian tube. When there is a rapid change in altitude, such as when an airplane descends, air pressure increases as the plane lowers, pushing the eardrum inward. Because a healthy and normally functioning Eustachian tube opens frequently and wide enough, it is able to equalize these changes in air pressure across the eardrum. However, individuals whose Eustachian tubes are blocked can develop fullness of the ear, dulled hearing, and possibly pain when this occurs. They may also experience similar symptoms when riding the elevator, driving up mountains, scuba diving or diving to the bottom of the pool. This is why those with a cold, sinus, or ear infection or allergies are advised to postpone a trip by airplane. And those with Eustachian tube dysfunction should be made aware that engaging in scuba diving and similar sports can be dangerous.

But one can do a few things to alleviate the effects of air pressure change and improve Eustachian tube functioning. For example, swallowing when eating, drinking or chewing gum can activate the muscles in the back of the throat to help open the Eustachian tube. Another excellent maneuver is yawning, which has been proven to be an even stronger muscle activator. One can also try to forcibly open the Eustachian tube by breathing deeply and blowing while pinching the nostrils and closing the mouth. If one is successful, he or she usually feels a “pop.”

When travelling in an airplane, one can use a decongestant pill or nasal spray before take-off or prior to descent. The decongestant can shrink the membranes lining the nose and throat, enabling the air pressure in the ears to equalize more easily. Those who have allergies can use antihistamines, decongestants and prescription nasal sprays and alleviate the symptoms of Eustachian tube blockage. And when it comes to babies on the plane, they can be made to suck on a bottle or pacifier. Interestingly, crying, which functions similarly to yawning, can also equalize air pressure for babies. It is important to note that when problems persist or one feels dizzy as a result of one of these action, one must seek medical attention.

Resource by F.Rosseti

I am a teacher in Michigan. I grew up in Florida and have lived here in MI for close to 15 years. I enjoy writing and skiing in my spare time.

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