The throat and middle ear are connected through a small passageway known as the Eustachian tube. Have you experienced the sensation of a plugged ear, then felt it open when you yawned? That sensation was a change in the Eustachian tube.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Usually, the small passage is closed, but it regularly opens to help with draining and equalizing ear pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When this small tube is functioning correctly, it can open through different motions: swallowing, yawning, or sneezing. The purpose is to minimize the risk of fluid and air pressure from building up in the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are times when the Eustachian tube becomes clogged and can lead to a variety of symptoms. Since you can\u2019t see the Eustachian tube without specialized medical equipment, the best indication of a clogged Eustachian tube is the presence of these symptoms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some people find that Eustachian tube issues become worse when altitude changes occur. For example, if you are flying on an airplane, scuba diving, or driving through the mountains, then you can feel a difference in pressure within the ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These symptoms can last for a short time or stick around for a while, depending on the underlying cause of the dysfunction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, when the symptoms are affected by a change in altitude, then it will resolve when you return to normal altitude again. If an illness causes the dysfunction, then the symptoms will linger until you are healed from the sickness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most of the time, dysfunction of the Eustachian tube occurs when there is a buildup of fluid or mucus in this small passageway. Chronic inflammation can also contribute to the development of symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another health condition often causes the presence of fluid or buildup. For example, if you have a sinus infection, head cold, allergies, or the flu, then the increased mucus production can affect the ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other risk factors of Eustachian dysfunction include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dysfunction of the eustachian tube is a fairly common condition. You can do things at home to treat this health concern and prevent issues in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Depending on the severity and cause of the dysfunction, it\u2019s possible that the symptoms will resolve on their own. Here are a few home remedies you might try for minor signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
OTC medications can provide temporary relief. But always follow the recommended dosages. Also, be proactive about talking to your doctor to avoid medicines that might interact with other drugs you are taking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you notice that these at-home remedies aren\u2019t enough to relieve your symptoms, then it might be <\/a>time to talk to an ENT<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMedical Treatments for the Eustachian Tubes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n