Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) occurs when the tiny canal connecting your middle ear to the back of your nose fails to open properly, preventing pressure equalization. This can lead to the feeling of plugged or filled ears, which can affect your hearing and cause discomfort. Normally, this can be easily fixed at home, but if the ear pressure is persistent, you will need a professional in order to treat it properly.
For patients in Middle Tennessee in need of premier ear, nose, and throat care, look no further than the experts at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee. Our board-certified practice includes a hearing center staffed by skilled physicians, practitioners, and experienced audiologists who use state-of-the-art techniques to easily treat conditions like ETD. With our innovative diagnostic tests, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate patient support, you can rest assured that you are getting the best treatment to find relief for any ear, nose, and throat symptoms you may encounter.
What is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Everyone feels pressure buildup in their sinuses, but ETD is more serious. When the canal connecting your middle ear to your nose is blocked, it can cause severe pain. Symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction are usually obvious:
A feeling that your ears are plugged or full.
Hearing that is muffled or dulled.
A popping, clicking, or tickling sensation when swallowing or yawning.
Mild pain or a pressure sensation in one or both ears.
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or slight balance problems on occasion.
Common Causes of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Several factors can cause the Eustachian tube to become congested or inflamed:
Allergies: Inflammation from seasonal or environmental allergies can cause swelling of the Eustachian tube lining.
Colds and Sinus Infections: Viral infections often cause congestion and fluid backup.
Barometric Changes: Rapid altitude shifts, like flying, can overload the tube’s ability to equalize pressure.
Structural Issues: Deviated septums or chronic nasal obstruction may hinder the tube from opening properly.
For a definitive diagnosis for the cause of your plugged ears, contact Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee to schedule testing and find relief.
When to Consult an ENT Specialist
While occasional ear fullness and mild pressure changes are normal, persistent or severe symptoms require an expert evaluation. Contact an ENT specialist if you experience any of the following:
Symptoms Lasting Over Three Weeks: If you have chronic ear pressure or fullness that doesn’t improve or dissipate on its own.
Severe Ear Pain or Pressure: If you have intense discomfort behind the ears or nose that interferes with your daily activities or sleep.
Noticeable Hearing Loss: If you have a sudden or gradual decline in hearing clarity.
Recurring Infections: If you have frequent bouts of middle-ear infections or otitis media.
How OAT’s Hearing Center Can Help
OAT’s ear, nose, and throat specialists will diagnose you quickly at your scheduled evaluation. During your evaluation at our Nashville hearing center, our team will:
Perform a Physical Exam: Our ENT doctors will inspect your ear canals and eardrums for retraction or fluid buildup.
Conduct Tympanometry: This is when specialists measure your middle-ear pressure and eardrum movement.
Perform Hearing Tests: Our doctors will conduct tests that will assess if there is any impact on your auditory functions.
Conduct Allergy Assessments: Specialists will identify allergies that can exacerbate eustachian tube inflammation.
These tests ensure an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. Treatment plans can involve one or a combination of the following:
Decongestants and Nasal Sprays: These medications can be found over the counter, and are the first recommendation to quickly reduce mucosal swelling.
Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty: This is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved procedure that gently dilates the Eustachian tube using a small balloon catheter.
Surgical Tubes: If your situation is chronic, tiny ear tubes may be inserted in order to ventilate the middle ear.
Explore advanced treatment options at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee. Contact us today to get relief for your ear, nose, and throat issues.
Preventing Plugged Ears
Protect your ears and your health by taking these simple steps in your everyday life:
Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated keeps your mucus thin, which eases the functionality of the Eustachian tube.
Chew Gum or Yawn: This is a simple way to naturally stimulate the tube and keep it open during pressure changes.
Manage Allergies: Allergy control will reduce inflammation and swelling.
Avoid Smoke Exposure: Irritants like smoke and pollution can inflame the tube lining.
Valsalva Maneuver: Pinch your nose, take a deep breath through your mouth, and gently blow out through the pinched nose. This forces air up your tubes and can equalize middle ear pressure.
Innovative Solutions at OAT’s Nashville Hearing Center
When plugged ears strike, don’t wait. Trust the experts at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee for compassionate, comprehensive ear, nose, and throat care at our Nashville hearing center. OAT leads the way with cutting-edge treatments, specialized pressure-regulating devices, and minimally invasive ear tube placement to provide our patients with rapid relief. Our expert team of physicians, practitioners, and audiologists ensures thorough follow-up care, balancing efficacy with patient comfort for long-term solutions.
Don’t wait. Contact Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee today to reclaim clear hearing and lasting comfort. Schedule an appointment by visiting us online or calling (615) 340-4000.
