This article provides a brief introduction to eustachian tube dysfunction that may not apply to everyone. Talk to your primary care physician to see if this information applies to you and to get more information about this condition. What is eustachian tube dysfunction? The eustachian tube is the small passage that connects the upper part of the throat (pharynx) to the middle ear. When you sneeze, swallow or yawn, your Eustachian tube opens to let air in and out. But sometimes the Eustachian tube may become blocked. This is called eustachian tube dysfunction. When this happens, sound may be suppressed, your ears may feel full, or you may have ear pain. What are the symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction? If you have eustachian tube dysfunction: Your symptoms may be worse when you fly (because of the change in altitude). Riding in elevators, crossing mountains or diving can also make your symptoms worse. Your ears may feel blocked or full. It may sound a little dull. You may feel a sudden sensation (children may say their “ears tickle”). You may have pain in one or both ears. You may hear ringing in your ears (tinnitus). Sometimes you have trouble keeping your balance. Causes and risk factors What causes eustachian tube dysfunction? The most common cause of eustachian tube dysfunction is excess tubular mucus and inflammation due to colds, flu, sinus infections, or allergies. Who is at risk for Eustachian tube dysfunction? Children are at greater risk of developing eustachian tube dysfunction because their test tubes are shorter and straighter than those of adults. This makes it easier for bacteria to reach the middle ear and keep fluid trapped there. In addition, children’s immune systems are not fully developed, making it difficult for them to fight off infections. Smoking and obesity are also risk factors. Smoking damages the cilia (the tiny hairs that run from the middle ear to the back of the nose). This can allow mucus to collect in the canals. In people who are obese, fat buildup around the canals can also lead to eustachian tube dysfunction. Diagnosis and tests How will my doctor know I have eustachian tube dysfunction? Your doctor will determine if you have eustachian tube dysfunction by talking to you about your symptoms and examining your symptoms. Your doctor will examine your ear canal and eardrum, as well as your nasal cavity and the back of your throat. Prevention How can I avoid eustachian tube dysfunction? Treating the underlying cause of the mucus or obstruction, such as symptoms of allergies, colds or flu, can help reduce your risk of developing eustachian tube dysfunction. Treatment How is eustachian tube dysfunction treated? Symptoms of eustachian tube dysfunction usually disappear without treatment. Eustachian tube exercises, such as swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum, can help open the Eustachian tube. You can relieve the “stuffy ears” feeling by taking a deep breath, closing your mouth and closing your nostrils. If you think your baby may have eustachian tube dysfunction, give him or her a bottle or a pacifier to encourage the gag reflex. If these strategies don’t work, your doctor may suggest other options. These may include: Using a decongestant to reduce swelling of the lining of the tube. Taking an antihistamine or using a steroid nasal spray to reduce allergic reactions to allergic reactions. Implanting a pressure balancing tube in your eardrum to maintain equal ear pressure. A small incision is made in the eardrum to suck out fluid from the middle ear. This gives the eustachian tube lining time to shrink while the eardrum heals (usually 1 to 3 days). Ask your doctor questions. My ears feel full and I don’t feel well when I yawn. Can I have eustachian tube dysfunction? What can I do to make my child more comfortable? My child has eustachian tube dysfunction. Does this mean he/she will have an ear infection? Is there anything I can do to make myself more comfortable when I travel? Will my allergies make the Eustachian tube dysfunction worse? What is the best way to treat Eustachian tube dysfunction?