Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Eustachian tube dysfunction, in the context of the ear, refers to a malfunction of the Eustachian tube, the passage that connects the middle ear with the back of the nose and throat. This passage is responsible for equalizing pressure and ventilating the ear.

Common discomforts: a feeling of a plugged ear, pressure, clicking when swallowing or yawning, and, at times, a temporary sense of reduced hearing.

Common causes: it is usually related to colds, allergies, or pressure changes, such as those that occur when flying or diving.

When to seek care? If the feeling of a plugged ear persists or recurs, a review helps understand the reason. The otolaryngologist is the specialist who studies problems of the ear, nose, and throat, and evaluating the case with them clarifies how to care for it.