Eustachian tubes are the tubes that help relieve air pressure and move fluid from the ears. They can often become blocked due to infections and other problems. When the eustachian tubes do not work properly, a person may suffer from pain, vertigo, dizziness, or an overwhelming feel of pressure in the ear.
There are many things that can cause eustachian tube dysfunction, but most are only temporary and can be treated. The eustachian tubes are very fragile and can easily become pinched off with swelling or infection. People who have reoccurring infections or struggle with eustachian tube issues may require tubes in their ears. The tubes work just like natural eustachian tubes but are less likely to become closed when there is swelling or infection around the ears.
Here are 14 of the most common causes of eustachian tube dysfunction. If you feel like you are struggling with eustachian dysfunction caused by one of these issues, see a doctor for help.
1. Weakened Immune System
Eustachian tube dysfunction is much more common in children and the elderly because they have weakened immune systems. The eustachian tubes in children are also much shorter than those of adults, so they can become infected more easily and spread the infection to other parts of the ear and body. This can lead to severe and chronic ear infections.
Some children people with weakened immune systems can struggle to recover from ear infections and each time the infection comes back it may be worse. While eustachian tube dysfunction can cause ear pain, many people can also have it without experiencing any pain or discomfort.
They may also experience pressure in the ear, eat canal itching, or extra ear drainage instead of pain. A doctor can do a physical examination to determine if an adult or child us suffering from eustachian tube dysfunction or an ear infection. Antibiotics are often used to treat ear infections caused by the dysfunction.
