Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treatment

If your ears are clogged or you’ve been told that you might have Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), then chances are you might need Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment. It may sound complicated, but Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment — known as Eustachian tube balloon dilation — is a quick and easy procedure that leaves lasting results.

Learn more about what causes Eustachian tube dysfunction, your Eustachian tube dysfunction symptoms, and where you can find Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment via balloon sinus dilation in Houston.

What Causes Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment begins with answering questions such as “What is a Eustachian tube” and “How can the Eustachian tube be blocked?”

The Eustachian tube is a small tube that connects your throat to your middle ear. When you have an excess of mucus or you’re feeling unwell and struggling with inflammation — both of which can occur when you’re dealing with an untreated sinus infection or severe sinus congestion — your Eustachian tube becomes vulnerable to blockage.

ETD, like issues with barometric pressure and sinuses, occurs when there are pressure differences. Specifically, when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked, air cannot get into the middle ear space from the ear canals, causing a difference in air pressure on the outer side of the eardrum and the inner side of the eardrum. This difference in pressure is the most common cause of Eustachian tube syndrome.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Symptoms

Many people seek Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment when they experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• A plugged, clogged, or full sensation in your ears
• Muffled sounds
• A popping, clicking, or tickling sensation in the ears
• Pain in one or both ears
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Balance issues

It should be noted that these symptoms may get worse when participating in activities that involve significant changes in altitude: flying, riding in elevators, driving over mountains, or diving are all known to exacerbate Eustachian tube dysfunction symptoms.

Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

If you’re seeking Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment and have read everything thus far, then chances are you’re thinking, “Okay, but how can I get my ear to drain?”

While some people can treat their Eustachian tube dysfunction with either home remedies such as chewing gum, yawning, or over-the-counter medication, others find that they need a more efficient and long-lasting solution. Eustachian tube balloon dilation fits this need.

Eustachian tube balloon dilation opens up the tunnel that connects the middle ear with the back of the nose. First, you’re given a numbing anesthesia for your nose. Next, a balloon is inserted in the clogged Eustachian tube via your nose, and then gently inflated to dilate the treatment area. This process restores an open pathway in your Eustachian tube.

Eustachian tube balloon dilation is an appealing Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment for many reasons. The treatment is non-invasive, requires no incisions, takes as little as 3 minutes, can take place in-office, and requires very little recovery time.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treatment in Houston

Like our patients who leave enthusiastic balloon sinuplasty reviews, Eustachian tube balloon dilation patients often report back that they’ve had long-lasting results and relief.

If you need Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment or have questions about balloon sinus dilation in Houston, call Dr. Kaplan and his team at (713) 597-8914 to schedule an appointment today.