Treatment for eustachian tube pain depends on the underlying cause.
In most cases, eustachian tube pain is not cause for serious concern.
But if the pain is persistent or particularly severe, it’s best to call a healthcare provider.
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This article explains the causes of eustachian tube pain and the symptoms that may come with it.
It also covers how those causes may be treated.
However, other conditions can also cause pain, such assinusitis,ear infections, andtemporomandibulardisorder(TMD).
Pressure changes can occur when your ears become clogged with fluid or mucus.
The condition is common in children, affecting close to 40% of children at some point.
An ear infection can also lead to the development of eustachian tube dysfunction.
Although rare, malignant tumors in the back of the nose or nasopharynx can obstruct the eustachian tube.
For this reason, anyone with persistent eustachian tube dysfunction should see a medical professional.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a common infection that occurs in the sinuses.
Its estimated that 31 million Americans have the condition.It causes the sinuses to become inflamed and blocked with fluid.
There are four different types of sinusitis: acute bacterial, chronic, subacute, and recurrent acute sinusitis.
The causes of sinusitis include acold, allergies, polyps, adeviated septum, and a compromised immune system.
There is one on both sides of the head, in front of the ears.
The TMJ allows a person to open and close their jaw.
Middle Ear Infections
A middle ear infection occurs behind theeardrum.
They are most commonly found in children, though they can develop at any age.
They typically develop following a cold or respiratory infection.
Blockage in the eustachian tube can also lead to an ear infection with effusion.
Middle ear infections are one of the most common causes of eustachian tube pain.
Nasal Obstruction
A nasal obstruction triggers when there is a blockage or obstruction in the nasal passage.
Eustachian tube pain feels like a dull, pressure-like pain that may be accompanied by muffled hearing.
The pain can occur in both ears or just one.
Its important to share all related symptoms, when they started, and if theyve occurred before.
Some people with sinusitis may need to undergo lab tests.
These could include blood tests, allergy tests, and a culture of nasal drainage.
They may also need aCT scan.
They will be able to determine whether the eardrum is healthy by its color.
An infected ear will show a red, swollen, and inflamed eardrum.
To check for fluid in the ear, your healthcare provider will use two methods.
The first is to blow air into your eardrum to see how well your eardrum moves.
If the eardrum doesn’t move well, there may be fluid behind it.
The second is an air pressure test called tympanometry.
Your healthcare provider will also look at your throat and nasal passages.
It all comes down to what the underlying cause is.
Jawexerciseshave also been shown to be effective at relieving pain associated with the condition.
You will need antibiotics for an ear infection.
In some cases,antidepressantsmay help manage the symptoms of TMD.
If the pain is severe, asteroid shotto the affected joint will help ease swelling and pain.
The focus is on treatment when they do arise.
Ear Candles and Eustachian Tube Pain
Ear candlesare hollowed-out fabric cones wrapped in wax.
You will need to treat your specific cause to alleviate the pain.
Some conditions can be treated at home, but others require medical treatment.
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