What is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)? – My Pendleton

What is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)? – 

ETD explained by an Audiologist specialising in “earwax removal High Wycombe”

The Eustachian tube connects each middle ear (an air-filled cavity behind your ear drum) with the back of the throat.  The normal position of the Eustachian tubes is closed, however they open when we swallow or yawn.  If you want to know how they do that, they are attached to the tensor veli palatini muscles in your soft palate which are activated automatically whenever you yawn or swallow.

 

If the Eustachian tube is blocked or does not open properly, air cannot get into or escape from the middle ear resulting in unequal pressure either side of the eardrum.  This can cause pain, discomfort, a popping and/or blocked sensation, hearing loss, tinnitus or dizziness.  ETD can be caused by a middle ear infection, resulting in the build up of fluid behind the eardrum causing the eardrum to become retracted.  Other common causes include: a cold, allergies, sinus infections, altitude changes, or infected adenoids (two small pads of tissue, close to the Eustachian tubes, that are believed to play a role in immune system activity).

 

How To Treat Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

ETD generally resolves by itself without treatment.  However, there are a number of ways to provide relief and these are described below.  If symptoms are severe or persistent for more than two weeks then it is recommended to seek the advice of your GP.

 

There are a number of methods that help equalise this pressure in the ears which can be carried out at home.  Each or a combination of these techniques may need to be done mulitple times in order to provide relief.

 

NOTE: We advise against practising ear equalisation techniques if you have a current or recent middle ear infection, unless on the advice of your GP or other medical doctor.

If you are looking for a qualified practitioner for private ear wax removal in Stokenchurch Bucks HP14, our Stokenchurch Micro Suction Ear wax Removal Clinic can be found at: ear wax removal high wycombe 

Stockenchurch Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Bucks HP14

Oxford Road
Stokenchurch Medical Centre,

Stokenchurch, Bucks HP14 3SX

Phone: 0800 133 7987

My Pendleton