What is Eustachian tube dysfunction. How does it affect your hearing and balance. What are the common causes and risk factors. How is it diagnosed and treated. Can it be prevented.

Understanding Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common condition that occurs when the small passageway connecting your throat to your middle ear becomes blocked or doesn’t function properly. This tube, known as the Eustachian tube, plays a crucial role in maintaining proper air pressure and fluid drainage in the ear.

Under normal circumstances, the Eustachian tube opens when you sneeze, swallow, or yawn, allowing air to flow in and out of the middle ear. This mechanism helps equalize pressure and prevent fluid buildup. However, when the tube becomes obstructed or fails to open and close as it should, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

How does Eustachian tube dysfunction affect your ears?

When the Eustachian tube isn’t functioning correctly, it can cause several issues:

• Pressure imbalance in the middle ear
• Fluid accumulation
• Difficulty equalizing ear pressure during altitude changes
• Potential increased risk of middle ear infections

Recognizing the Symptoms of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Identifying Eustachian tube dysfunction is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. The symptoms can vary in intensity and may affect one or both ears. Here are the primary signs to watch for:

• Ear fullness or plugged sensation
• Muffled hearing
• Popping or clicking sounds in the ear
• Ear pain or discomfort
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Balance issues

Do these symptoms worsen with altitude changes? Many individuals with Eustachian tube dysfunction experience increased discomfort during activities that involve pressure changes, such as:

• Flying in an airplane
• Riding in elevators
• Driving through mountainous areas
• Scuba diving

Common Causes and Risk Factors for ETD

Eustachian tube dysfunction can occur due to various factors, with inflammation and fluid buildup being the most common culprits. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and management of the condition.

What are the primary triggers for Eustachian tube dysfunction?

Several conditions can lead to swelling and obstruction of the Eustachian tubes:

• Common cold
• Influenza (flu)
• Sinus infections
• Allergies

Are certain individuals more prone to developing Eustachian tube dysfunction? Yes, some people have a higher risk due to various factors:

1. Children: Their Eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal, making them more susceptible to blockages and infections.
2. Smokers: Tobacco smoke can damage the cilia (tiny hairs) that help clear mucus from the middle ear, leading to congestion.
3. Individuals with obesity: Excess fatty deposits around the tubes can contribute to dysfunction.
4. People with chronic allergies or sinus problems: Ongoing inflammation can affect Eustachian tube function.

Diagnosing Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

If you suspect you have Eustachian tube dysfunction, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. The diagnostic process typically involves:

• A thorough discussion of your symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination of your ear canals and eardrums
• Inspection of your nasal passages
• Examination of the back of your throat

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of the dysfunction. These might include:

• Tympanometry to measure eardrum movement
• Audiometry to evaluate hearing function
• Nasopharyngoscopy to visualize the Eustachian tube openings

Treatment Options for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

The good news is that many cases of Eustachian tube dysfunction resolve on their own without intensive treatment. However, there are several strategies and interventions that can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

What are some self-help techniques for managing ETD?

You can try these simple exercises to help open up your Eustachian tubes:

• Swallowing
• Yawning
• Chewing gum
• Performing the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing out while pinching your nostrils closed and keeping your mouth shut)

For infants and young children, feeding or offering a pacifier can encourage the swallowing reflex and help equalize ear pressure.

When should you seek medical treatment for ETD?

If self-help measures don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Decongestants to reduce swelling in the Eustachian tube lining
2. Antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays to address allergic reactions
3. Myringotomy (a minor procedure to create a tiny incision in the eardrum and suction out fluid)
4. Insertion of pressure equalization tubes in the eardrums
5. Balloon dilation of the Eustachian tubes

Is balloon dilation an effective treatment for chronic ETD? This relatively new procedure has shown promise in treating persistent cases. A small catheter is used to insert and inflate a balloon in the Eustachian tube, opening a pathway for mucus and air to flow more freely.

Preventing Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

While it’s not always possible to prevent Eustachian tube dysfunction, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Manage allergies effectively
• Practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of upper respiratory infections
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Use decongestants before air travel if you’re prone to ear problems
• Stay hydrated to keep mucus thin and less likely to cause blockages

Can maintaining a healthy weight help prevent ETD? Yes, as obesity is a risk factor, maintaining a healthy BMI may reduce your chances of developing Eustachian tube problems.

Living with Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

For many people, Eustachian tube dysfunction is a temporary inconvenience. However, some individuals may experience recurrent or chronic issues. Here are some tips for managing the condition in your daily life:

• Be proactive about treating colds and allergies to prevent complications
• Learn and practice pressure-equalizing techniques for use during air travel or altitude changes
• Consider using a humidifier in your home to keep nasal passages moist
• Avoid sudden pressure changes when possible
• Keep follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the condition

Should you be concerned about long-term hearing damage from ETD? While occasional Eustachian tube dysfunction is unlikely to cause permanent hearing loss, chronic or severe cases should be monitored by a healthcare professional to prevent potential complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for ETD

While many cases of Eustachian tube dysfunction resolve on their own, there are instances where medical intervention is necessary. Be alert for the following signs that indicate you should consult a doctor:

• Severe ear pain
• Persistent symptoms lasting more than two weeks
• Hearing loss that doesn’t improve
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Fever along with ear symptoms (which may indicate an infection)
• Bloody or pus-like drainage from the ear

Is it normal for children to experience frequent ETD? While children are more prone to Eustachian tube issues due to their anatomy, frequent or persistent problems should be evaluated by a pediatrician or ear specialist to rule out underlying conditions and prevent potential developmental impacts.

Important considerations for parents

If your child is experiencing symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction:

• Monitor their symptoms closely
• Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids
• Use age-appropriate pain relievers if recommended by your doctor
• Elevate their head while sleeping to promote drainage
• Avoid exposing them to secondhand smoke

Remember, recurrent ear problems in children can potentially affect hearing and speech development, so it’s crucial to address persistent issues promptly.

Addressing Common Misconceptions About ETD

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding Eustachian tube dysfunction that can lead to improper management or unnecessary worry. Let’s clarify some of these:

Are ear candles an effective treatment for ETD?

No, ear candles are not recommended for treating Eustachian tube dysfunction or any other ear condition. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning against their use due to the risk of serious injuries and the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. Proper medical treatments and self-care techniques are much safer and more reliable options.

Does ETD always lead to ear infections?

While Eustachian tube dysfunction can increase the risk of middle ear infections (otitis media), it doesn’t always result in an infection. Proper management of ETD symptoms and addressing underlying causes can help prevent complications like ear infections.

Can you “pop” your ears to cure ETD?

The sensation of “popping” your ears through methods like yawning or the Valsalva maneuver can provide temporary relief from ETD symptoms by equalizing pressure. However, these techniques don’t cure the underlying cause of persistent dysfunction. If symptoms continue, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Understanding these facts can help you make informed decisions about managing Eustachian tube dysfunction and knowing when to seek professional help.

Latest Research and Developments in ETD Treatment

The field of otolaryngology continues to advance, bringing new insights and treatment options for Eustachian tube dysfunction. Here are some areas of ongoing research and recent developments:

What new treatments are being explored for chronic ETD?

• Improved balloon dilation techniques with longer-lasting effects
• Development of bioabsorbable Eustachian tube stents
• Targeted drug delivery systems for more effective local treatment
• Gene therapy approaches to address underlying genetic factors

Are there any promising non-invasive treatments on the horizon? Researchers are investigating several non-invasive options:

• Sound therapy to stimulate Eustachian tube muscles
• Photobiomodulation (light therapy) to reduce inflammation
• Advanced nasal sprays with better penetration and prolonged effect

These emerging treatments offer hope for individuals with persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction that doesn’t respond well to current therapies. However, it’s important to note that many of these approaches are still in the research phase and may not be widely available for some time.

How is technology improving ETD diagnosis?

Advancements in diagnostic technology are also enhancing our understanding and management of Eustachian tube dysfunction:

• High-resolution CT and MRI imaging for better visualization of the Eustachian tube anatomy
• Improved tympanometry devices for more accurate pressure measurements
• Development of smartphone-based apps for at-home monitoring of ear pressure and symptoms

These technological improvements may lead to earlier detection and more personalized treatment plans for individuals suffering from ETD.

As research continues, it’s crucial for patients to stay informed about new developments and discuss potential treatment options with their healthcare providers. The landscape of ETD management is evolving, and future treatments may offer better outcomes for those affected by this common condition.

Causes, Symptoms and FDA Advice

What is Eustachian tube dysfunction?

The Eustachian tube is a small passageway that connects your throat to your middle ear. When you sneeze, swallow, or yawn, your Eustachian tubes open. This keeps air pressure and fluid from building up inside your ear. But sometimes a Eustachian tube might get plugged. This is called Eustachian tube dysfunction. When this happens, sounds may be muffled, and your ear may feel full. You may also have ear pain.

Symptoms

If you have Eustachian tube dysfunction:

• Your ears may feel plugged or full.
• Sounds may seem muffled.
• You may feel a popping or clicking sensation (children may say their ear “tickles”).
• You may have pain in one or both ears.
• You may hear ringing in your ears (called tinnitus).
• You may sometimes have trouble keeping your balance.

Your symptoms may get worse with changes in altitude. This includes flying in an airplane, riding in elevators, driving through mountains, or diving.

What causes Eustachian tube dysfunction?

The most common cause of Eustachian tube dysfunction is when the tube become swollen (inflamed) and mucus or fluid builds up. This can be caused by a cold, the flu, a sinus infection, or allergies. Some people are at greater risk for Eustachian tube dysfunction. They include:

• Children. Their tubes are shorter and straighter than those of an adult. This makes it easier for germs to reach the middle ear and for fluid to become trapped there. Also, children’s immune systems are not fully developed. This makes it harder for them to fight off infections.
• People who smoke. Smoking damages the cilia (the tiny hairs that sweep mucus from the middle ear to the back of the nose). This can allow mucus to gather in the tubes.
• People who are obese. Fatty deposits around the tubes can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction.

How is Eustachian tube dysfunction diagnosed?

Your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and examine you. They will examine your ear canals and eardrums, your nasal passages, and the back of your throat.

Can Eustachian tube dysfunction be prevented or avoided?

Reduce your risk of developing this condition by treating the underlying cause of the blockage. This is usually allergies, a cold, or the flu.

Treatment

Symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction usually go away without treatment. You can do exercises to open up the tubes. This includes swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum. You can help relieve the “full ear” feeling by taking a deep breath, pinching your nostrils closed, and “blowing” with your mouth shut.

If you think your baby may have Eustachian tube dysfunction, feed him or her. You can also give them a pacifier. These encourage the swallow reflex.

If these strategies don’t help, your doctor may suggest other options. These can include:

• Using a decongestant to reduce the swelling of the lining of the tubes
• Taking an antihistamine or using a steroid nasal spray to reduce any allergic response
• Making a tiny incision in the eardrum and suctioning out the fluid in the middle ear. This gives the Eustachian tube lining time to shrink while the eardrum is healing (usually 1 to 3 days).
• Implanting small tubes in the eardrums. These let built-up fluid drain out of the middle ear. Children who get a lot of ear infections sometimes get tubes in their ears. They stay in up to 18 months and fall out on their own.
• Using a balloon dilation system. A doctor will use a catheter (long, flexible tube) to insert a small balloon through your nose and into the Eustachian tube. When it is inflated, the balloon opens a pathway for mucus and air to flow through the tube. This can help it function properly.

FDA warning

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against the use of ear candles (inserting a special candle in the ear). It is supposed to pull wax and debris out of your ear as it burns. Ear candles can cause serious injuries and there is no evidence to support their effectiveness.

Living with Eustachian tube dysfunction

Managing your symptoms when you have allergies or a cold is important. This can keep your Eustachian tubes clear and prevent an infection. Home care usually takes care of any problems. This includes exercises such as swallowing or yawning. If you or your child show symptoms of severe pain in the ear, call your family doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor

• My ears feel full and don’t feel better when I yawn. Could I have Eustachian tube dysfunction?
• What can I do to make my child more comfortable?
• My child has Eustachian tube dysfunction. Does this mean they will have ear infections?
• Is there anything I can do when I travel to make myself more comfortable?
• Could my allergies make Eustachian tube dysfunction worse?
• What is the best way to treat my symptoms?

Resources

National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Otitis media with effusion

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Eustachian tube dysfunction: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Infections and blockages can disrupt the eustachian tubes, leading to discomfort and hearing problems. Any of these symptoms can count as eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

The eustachian tube runs from the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. It helps drain fluid from the middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum. Infection and blockages can disrupt this process and lead to complications.

In this article, we discuss the the symptoms, causes, and treatments for ETD

There are a few different causes of ETD, and certain factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing it.

• The eustachian tubes help regulate ear pressure and drain excess fluid from the middle ear.
• When they are blocked, symptoms can include pain, popping sounds in the ears, or fluid in the ears.
• The treatment depends on the underlying cause.

A person can often easily manage ETD at home. However, persistent symptoms may require contacting a doctor for treatment.

The eustachian tubes are canals that run from the back of the nose and upper throat to the middle ear, helping keep the air pressure behind the eardrum the same as the pressure outside. They remain closed most of the time but will open as a person swallows, chews, or yawns.

Some people can have a condition that health experts refer to as patulous eustachian tube, where tubes stay open when they should be closed. This causes a person to experience autophony, which is when they can hear their own breathing and voice inside their head.

In addition, these canals are so tiny that blockages can happen for many reasons. Blocked eustachian tubes can cause discomfort and lead to hearing problems. Any of these symptoms can count as ETD.

ETD covers a variety of symptoms and has a range of potential causes. Season allergies and illnesses that create inflammation in the area, such as the flu or cold, are common causes of ETD.

Sinus infections can also trigger ETD, as a sinus infection causes the eustachian tubes to become inflamed or filled with mucus. More serious infections can cause ETD as well.

Moreover, ETD may stem from simple changes in altitude or air pressure. For instance, driving up a mountain or sitting in a plane can cause ETD. Even just riding the elevator in a tall building may be enough for some people to develop unpleasant symptoms.

It is common to experience ETD occasionally, but some people have symptoms more often than others.

Lifestyle risks

Lifestyle risks include smoking and carrying excess body weight.

Smoking can damage the delicate hairs in the throat and middle ear.

Carrying excess body weight can lead to fatty tissue deposits to form around the eustachian tubes, causing fluid buildup in the ear.

However, significant weight loss can also lead to dysfunction when fat buildup in the tubes decreases too quickly.

Engaging in certain activities may also put a person more at risk of pressure changes, which could trigger ETD symptoms. These activities include:

• hiking at high altitudes
• rock climbing
• skiing or snowboarding
• scuba diving

Medical risks

People with allergies may experience ETD more often, as allergies can cause increased mucus and congestion.

Children are also at higher risk of ETD, as their eustachian tubes are smaller and orient more horizontally than vertically. This makes the tubes more likely to become clogged by mucus or germs.

Furthermore, a child’s immune system is less able to fight off infections, as it is not fully developed. Children have more frequent colds and sinus infections, which are direct causes of ETD.

Enlarged adenoids can also cause eustachian tube obstruction and lead to bacterial growth, which can then result in ear infections.

The following medical conditions are risk factors as well:

• Cleft palate: It commonly affects children from birth and almost always leads to ETD.
• Trisomy 21: This is a type of Down syndrome that causes small and abnormally shaped tubes, poor muscle tone, and a decrease in the cartilage density within the tube.
• Generalized hypotonia: Also called poor muscle tone, this condition can occur for a number of reasons. It can impair the function of a muscle in the soft palate in the mouth and lead to a eustachian tube collapse.
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux: This condition can obstruct the eustachian tubes.

Yet another risk factor is having a ciliary disorder, such as primary ciliary dyskinesia, which is an inherited condition where the cilia in the airway do not work properly.

Symptoms of ETD can vary from mild to severe and may be different for each person.

Common symptoms include:

• a plugged feeling in the ears
• the ears feeling as if they are filled with water
• tinnitus, or ringing in the ear
• muffled hearing or partial hearing loss
• ticking or popping sounds
• pain and tenderness around the ear
• a tickling or tingling sensation
• trouble with balance

The length and severity of ETD symptoms depend on their cause. For instance, if ETD results from a change in altitude, these symptoms will often go away as the body adjusts to the pressure or reaches a lower altitude.

By contrast, ETD that is due to an illness or infection can last much longer. Anyone with ETD symptoms that last more than 2 weeks should seek guidance from a doctor.

Children with symptoms of ETD should receive medical help sooner, as the symptoms of ETD are similar to an ear infection.

When people experience dysfunction due to a nonviral cause, they are more likely to experience symptoms that persist for longer.

ETD can cause complications such as:

• ear infection
• middle ear atelectasis, which is a retraction of the eardrum
• chronic otitis media, which is when there is persistent fluid in the ear
• cholesteatoma, which is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear

Any of these conditions can lead to dysfunction that causes hearing loss.

Doctors usually diagnose ETD based on a physical examination and a person’s symptoms.

A doctor may ask about hearing changes, pain in the ears, or feelings of pressure. They will also look inside the eardrum and the middle ear using an otoscope, checking for any signs of infection or blockages.

A doctor may need to look at an audiogram. This shows the results of a hearing test, or a tympanogram, which shows the function of the eardrum.

If there are cholesteatomas in the ear, or if there are concerns about skin migration into the middle ear, the doctor may order additional imaging tests.

If ETD occurs as a result of another condition, the doctor may ask questions about that as well in order to determine the correct treatment.

The symptoms of ETD will usually clear up on their own. If another condition is causing the symptoms, however, they will resolve once a person receives treatment for the underlying cause.

Home remedies

If the symptoms of ETD are bothersome, some simple home remedies may help. A person can address minor ETD symptoms, such as those due to a change in altitude or air pressure, by chewing gum or forcing a yawn.

Many people also find that the symptoms of minor ETD can go away as they swallow, so drinking a beverage or having a snack may help. These remedies help open and close the eustachian tube and relieve the pressure.

Doing the valsalva maneuver can also help. This means pinching the nose closed while closing the mouth, and blowing into the nose. This can also help relieve ear pressure on an airplane.

Children experiencing minor or temporary ETD symptoms can eat a snack or chew a piece of gum. Giving an infant a bottle or pacifier may help relieve the symptoms.

A person can relieve minor to moderate symptoms by using a saline nasal spray or irrigation system. Sometimes, dried mucus or other particles can get stuck in or near the eustachian tube and cause symptoms. Clearing the passageways can help eliminate anything clogged in the passage.

Over-the-counter medication

Depending on the cause, some over-the-counter drugs may help with ETD symptoms.

Someone who experiences ETD due to allergies may find relief using antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), or loratadine (Alavert, Claritin), or nasal steroid sprays.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, may help with pain and swelling. A person should check with a doctor to make sure these medications will not interact with any other medication they are taking.

Medical treatments

If the symptoms of ETD are due to a bacterial ear infection, a doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. This may be a topical treatment or an oral antibiotic.

In severe cases of ETD, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids as well.

Surgery

Sometimes, fluids build up behind the eardrum and cannot escape through the dysfunctional eustachian tubes. In such cases, doctors may make a small cut in the eardrum to help with fluid drainage.

People who experience frequent severe ETD may need pressure equalization (PE) tubes. These are implants that balance the pressure in the ears and help reduce the likelihood of middle ear infections. It is a common procedure for children, but it can be suitable for adults as well.

Other surgical procedures include:

• eustachian tube balloon dilation, which uses a saline-filled balloon catheter to dilate the tubes
• transtubal application of fluids, in which a surgeon uses a nasal microendoscope to pass fluids to the middle ear and regulate ear pressure
• eustachian tuboplasty, which uses a laser or rotary cutting tool to clear obstructions from mucous membranes or cartilage in the eustachian tube

Most often, doctors use these procedures in adults. Children usually get PE tubes and will typically not need them as they get older.

A big part of any prevention strategy for ETD involves:

• leading a healthy lifestyle
• maintaining good hygiene to avoid cold- or flu-causing germs
• practicing good management of any allergies or asthma

This can help prevent common triggers that can cause the condition.

ETD and flying

When people fly, they may experience a common sensation in their ears known as airplane ear, ear barotrauma, barotitis media, or aerotitis media. It is a sensation of pressure, sometimes also pain, in the ears as the plane ascends and descends.

The cause is a quick change in altitude and pressure. When this happens, and the eustachian tube does not ventilate properly, a dysfunction occurs.

Since flying can put a person at risk of the condition, it may help to do the following when on a plane:

• swallowing repeatedly, for example, by drinking water, chewing gum, or eating candy as a way to help the process
• doing the valsalva maneuver
• yawning repeatedly to cause a popping sensation that can equalize pressure
• wearing earplugs during take off and landing to reduce the impact of the pressure change
• using a nasal decongestant for acute discomfort before, during, or after flying. However, a person should not use this for more than 3 days.

ETD is common, but most cases resolve with little or no help. Treating the underlying cause is the best way to treat and prevent recurring symptoms of ETD.

Children and adults who get symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, as well as those with chronic ETD symptoms, should contact a doctor to consider more thorough treatments.

Discharge from the ear

To the guide

Discharge from the ear often indicates the development of an inflammatory process in the outer or middle ear.

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Ear wax protects against the penetration of pathogens and foreign bodies into the ear canal. Therefore, its formation is physiologically determined and is considered the norm. Other discharge from the ear usually indicates pathology and may contain purulent masses and blood impurities.

Types of discharge

According to their type of discharge are divided into several types:

Purulent discharge

The leakage of pus from the ear canal occurs with inflammation of the outer and middle ear, and is also characteristic of external and acute otitis media with perforation of the tympanic membrane, respectively. Other causes of purulent discharge can be otomycosis, in which fungal microflora parasitizes in the ear, and furunculosis.

This is the name of the inflammation of the sebaceous glands in the ear canal, accompanied by the formation of a limited cavity (one or more), filled with a purulent secret. The clinical picture may be supplemented by other signs: the development of hearing loss, congestion and pain in the ear on the side of the lesion, a sensation of tinnitus, which is often mixed with dizziness. The physical condition of the patient is aggravated by a runny nose, fever, an increase in local lymph nodes, and pain in the ear region.

Spotting

Discharge from the ear with blood impurities also occurs with the development of an inflammatory process in the middle and outer sections. But the most common cause of such phenomena is trauma to the eardrum or other internal structures, as a result of exposure to mechanical objects that have fallen into the ear canal, or pressure drop. In the latter case, the cause may be barotrauma, which is often found in novice scuba divers with improper diving to depth due to a sharp change in the difference between external and internal fluid pressure.

Transparent highlights

There are also clear discharges from the ear. A striking example is exudative otitis media, during the development of which fluid accumulates in the middle ear cavity. Rupture of the tympanic membrane leads to the manifestation of the contents. Inflammation for this form of otitis is uncharacteristic.

Cerebrospinal fluid, which is also clear, may leak from the ear. A similar picture can be observed with craniocerebral injuries that led to a fracture of the base of the skull.

Diagnostics

Elucidation of the etiology of this phenomenon is carried out on the basis of the patient’s own complaints and instrumental examination data.

As part of the diagnosis, otoscopy is used, the main task of which is to exclude pathology in the ear. The doctor also performs the toilet of the ear, clearing the ear canal from the contents, using micro-instruments. For a more detailed examination, otomicroscopy is used.

If an inflammatory process is confirmed, discharge from the ear is subject to microbiological examination, which makes it possible to establish the type of pathogen and identify its sensitivity to antibiotics. Head injuries are the reason for performing a computed tomography.

Treatment

Treatment according to the cause of the event:

• Drug therapy – antibacterial drugs in the form of drops;
• Opening of a furuncle with furunculosis. It is carried out under local anesthesia, followed by the toilet of the auditory canal and the appointment of antibiotics;
• Perforation of the tympanic membrane. As a rule, it tightens on its own. In severe cases, with craniocerebral injuries, they seek the advice of a neurosurgeon.

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Discharge from the ear – causes and treatment in the Kiev ENT center

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• What not to do
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Discharge from the ear has the medical name otorrhea . This is a pathological phenomenon in which liquid masses of various nature flow out of the ear canal . In this case, concomitant symptoms are often observed – ear pain, hearing loss, fever.

Varieties of discharge

Depending on the nature, discharge from the ear may be:

It is worth noting that normally wax is constantly released from the ear. But if there is too much of it, this is also considered an alarming sign.

Watery

Clear discharge from the ear is commonly referred to as serous. They are a sure symptom of exudative otitis media, and also appear with damage to the eardrum, allergic reactions, and head injuries.

Bloody

In person , bleeding from the ear is quite rare. Most often they are provoked by injuries of the ear, eardrum and head, as well as the presence of polyps and other tumors.

Purulent

In inflammatory processes , purulent discharge from the ear appears quite often. As a rule, they are white in color and cloudy in texture, with an unpleasant odor. Their appearance may differ depending on the cause. With inflammation of the middle ear, they are slightly yellowish. With external otitis, especially when a boil opens, thick white discharge from the ear . In cholesteatoma, they contain impurities of epithelial cells.

Causes of ear discharge

The most common causes of otorrhoea are:

What to do about ear discharge?

Otorrhea indicates serious ear problems that only a doctor can solve. Therefore, the first thing to do with ear discharge and other suspicious symptoms – contact an ENT.

What not to do

If you have discharge from your ear , you should never heat it. This can activate the infection and cause an increase in the inflammatory process. It is also not recommended to drip the first drops into the ears and be treated with folk remedies. So you will only aggravate the situation – the disease will progress.

Appearance of discharge from the ear canal

The nature of the discharge largely depends on the age of the person and other individual characteristics.

At the baby

Babies’ ears are not yet fully formed and are very prone to inflammation. But if you notice yellow discharge from the ear of a baby, you should not sound the alarm – most likely, it’s just sulfur. If it’s too much, see a doctor.

In a child

Usually discharge from the ear in a child speaks of inflammation in the ears. Therefore, you need to contact the ENT for help as soon as possible. If you miss the moment, the disease progresses and will cause serious complications, up to deafness.

Adult

The most common ear discharge in adult patients is otitis media . They can also appear in divers who do not follow safety rules during the dive. If you notice yellowish discharge from the ear without pain – most likely, the matter is in the increased secretion of sulfur.

Features of treatment in “Betterton”

For those who have discharge from the ear, how to treat – they know in our ENT center. Our doctors help patients cope with this unpleasant symptom. The secret of this success lies in the latest diagnostic methods and an integrated approach to therapy. Doctors examine the ear using video otoscopy, which is highly accurate. This helps to understand causes of problems and choose a treatment.

Depending on what caused otorrhoea, the doctor selects measures of therapy. He prescribes drugs that act directly on the pathogen: antibiotics, antiviral, antifungal agents, etc. In parallel, the patient is prescribed medical procedures, physiotherapy and restorative drugs aimed at increasing immunity.

Possible complications of discharge

If a person has otitis, discharge from the ear is far from the only unpleasant symptom. The disease is accompanied by pain, hearing loss, high fever. But the worst thing is that it can give serious complications. The inflammatory process gradually affects all structures of the ear, disables important elements – auditory ossicles, cochlear hair cells, etc. Because of this, irreversible hearing loss may develop.

In addition, inflammatory and purulent processes in the ears can go to the facial nerve, bone tissue and even the meninges. This, in turn, poses a threat to human life. Therefore, it is recommended to treat them on time, and even better – to prevent them.

Prophylaxis

The main issue that worries people who have discharge from the ear is how to treat . But it is better to make sure that they do not exist at all. To do this, avoid hypothermia, drafts, head injuries. If water gets into the ear, it is advisable to remove it as soon as possible. In case of inflammatory processes of the ENT organs, you should not start them and immediately consult a doctor.

With proper treatment of ear diseases in the center “Betterton” you can completely eliminate the symptoms without the risk of relapse.