Eustachian tubes are an essential part of our anatomy. Despite this, many don’t know much about them or give them much thought — until they start causing problems, that is. For those suffering from Eustachian tube dysfunction or recurrent otitis media (ear infections), Eustachian tube balloon dilation may be an effective option for relief from symptoms and may be a good alternative to more traditional approaches like ear tubes.
Symptoms of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
You may have Eustachian tube dysfunction if you experience the following symptoms:
Problems hearing
Pain in ear
Sense of fullness
Ringing or popping sounds in the ears
What Causes Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Eustachian tubes have several functions, including equalizing pressure between the outside world and within the ears. Eustachian tube dysfunction makes it so they can’t perform this function, often because of inflammation or fluid buildup in the ears.
How Do I Know If I’m a Candidate for Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation?
Your doctor will begin by asking questions to determine if the symptoms you’re experiencing are consistent with Eustachian tube dysfunction. If so, an endoscope can be placed through the nose, which allows your doctor to visualize the area and make a diagnosis, as well as see if a balloon dilation procedure may be right for you.
How Does Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Work?
First, your doctor will insert both an endoscope, to help them see the area they’re treating, and an inflatable device (the “balloon”) into your Eustachian tubes via your nose. Once the inflatable device is in place, it is inflated to allow for fluid drainage and to reshape the area to open it up for better drainage in the future. This also remodels the cartilage so that the tubes are now more efficient at drainage. This is a minimally invasive surgery and can be done in-office.
Eustachian Tube Dilation vs. Ear Tubes
Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a great alternative to tubes. It eliminates the need to undergo a procedure in an operating room. There is also less of a risk of needing repeat surgeries, which can be the case with ear tubes. Also, tubes do not address the underlying structural issues the way balloon dilation does.
If you are experiencing chronic ear infections or Eustachian tube dysfunction, give our office a call to schedule a consultation to see if Eustachian tube balloon dilation may be right for you.
