Keeping your Eustachian tube or “flapper” open longer can help equalize pressure and improve hearing. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. It allows air pressure to equalize on both sides of the eardrum. When the tube becomes blocked, you may experience “clogged ears” or hearing changes. There are several methods to help keep the Eustachian tube open longer.
Page Contents
- 1 Methods to Keep the Eustachian Tube Open
- 1.1 Swallowing and Yawning
- 1.2 Nose Blowing
- 1.3 Chewing Gum
- 1.4 Stay Upright
- 1.5 Stay Hydrated
- 1.6 Nasal Irrigation
- 1.7 Nasal Steroid Sprays
- 1.8 Oral Decongestants
- 1.9 Antihistamines
- 1.10 Decongestant and Antihistamine Combinations
- 1.11 Oral or Topical Nasal Steroids
- 1.12 Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation
- 1.13 Eustachian Tube Surgery
- 2 Lifestyle Changes
- 3 Home Remedies
- 4 When to See a Doctor
- 5 Conclusion
What is the Eustachian Tube?
The Eustachian tube, also known as the auditory tube or pharyngotympanic tube, is a canal that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat behind the nose). It is approximately 1 1⁄2 inches (36-45 mm) in length and lies almost horizontally in adults.
The Eustachian tube serves three main functions:
- Pressure equalization – It equalizes pressure across the eardrum by allowing air into the middle ear.
- Protection – It protects the middle ear from secretions and pathogens from the nose and throat.
- Clearance – It allows drainage of secretions from the middle ear into the nose and throat.
The tube opens briefly from time to time to regulate air pressure. We are not normally aware of this, but can hear a “popping” sound when the tube opens, such as when flying in an airplane or driving up mountains.
Why Keep it Open Longer?
If the Eustachian tube becomes blocked or does not open properly, air cannot travel to the middle ear which causes a pressure difference between the outer and middle ear. This leads to muffled hearing and ear pain. Fluid can also accumulate in the middle ear, potentially leading to infection.
Keeping the tube open longer allows air to enter the middle ear space more frequently, preventing pressure changes and buildup of fluid. This can improve hearing, reduce ear pain, and decrease risk of infection.
Some common causes of Eustachian tube blockage include:
- Congestion from colds or allergies
- Enlarged adenoids
- Ear infections
- Smoking
- Reflux disease
People more prone to blockage include children, since their tubes are narrower, and those with cleft palate or Down’s syndrome. Persistent blockage can lead to hearing loss or cholesteatoma.
Methods to Keep the Eustachian Tube Open
There are several methods, from lifestyle changes to medications, that can help keep your Eustachian tubes open longer.
Swallowing and Yawning
Two simple exercises to open the Eustachian tubes are swallowing and yawning:
- Swallowing – Take sips of water and consciously swallow more frequently throughout the day. The muscle action of swallowing helps open the tube.
- Yawning – Yawn frequently by opening your mouth wide and breathing in deeply. This stretches the tube open.
Make swallowing and yawning exercises a habit all day long to keep the tubes open.
Nose Blowing
Gently blowing your nose helps force air through the Eustachian tubes and keeps them clear.
- Pinch one nostril closed and gently blow through the other nostril.
- Repeat with the other nostril.
- Do not blow forcefully as this can push germs and fluid further into the ear.
Repeat nose blowing throughout the day if you have nasal congestion or pressure in your ears. Always blow gently one side at a time.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum promotes swallowing and chewing motions that help open the Eustachian tubes.
- Chew gum for at least 10 minutes 3-4 times per day.
- Sugarless gum is best to avoid damage to teeth.
- Do not chew excessively hard.
Chewing gum is an easy way to incorporate the tube-opening action of swallowing into your daily routine.
Stay Upright
The Eustachian tube is positioned almost horizontally in the head. Remaining upright helps keep the tube straight and open.
- Avoid lying down or bending over soon after eating.
- Sleep with multiple pillows to remain propped up.
- Avoid activities like yoga poses where the head is lowered below the body.
Maintaining an upright posture allows gravity to keep the tube in the optimal position for drainage and airflow.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated helps thin out mucus secretions that can obstruct the Eustachian tube.
- Drink at least 64 ounces (8 cups) of water daily.
- Avoid thick, dairy-based drinks that increase mucus.
- Breathe moist, warm air to keep nasal passages moist.
Proper hydration promotes mucus clearance from the tube to prevent blockages.
Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation washes out mucus and reduces inflammation in the nasal passages connected to the Eustachian tubes.
- Use a saline nasal spray 2-3 times per day.
- Try a neti pot with salt water solution as part of your regular routine.
- Use a sinus rinse bottle to irrigate nasal passages.
Nasal irrigation directly cleans out the area around the Eustachian tube opening.
Nasal Steroid Sprays
Nasal steroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal airways. Less swelling allows the Eustachian tube to open more easily.
- Ask your doctor about prescription nasal steroid sprays.
- Use sprays like Flonase consistently, even when you feel well.
- It may take several weeks to notice improvement.
Nasal steroid sprays are very effective for chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Oral Decongestants
Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine shrink swollen nasal tissues that obstruct the Eustachian tube.
- Take decongestants for only 3-5 days to avoid rebound swelling.
- Use oral decongestants leading up to air travel to prevent ear blockages.
- Consult your doctor before using decongestants if you have health conditions.
Oral decongestants offer temporary relief but are not a good long-term solution.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can reduce allergic inflammation that causes Eustachian tube swelling.
- Take antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) daily during allergy season.
- Use prescription antihistamine nasal sprays like azelastine (Astelin).
- Begin taking antihistamines before allergy symptoms start.
Antihistamines are key for treating seasonal allergies that affect the Eustachian tubes.
Decongestant and Antihistamine Combinations
Combining decongestants and antihistamines often works better than either medication alone.
- Use combination sprays like Dymista which contains azelastine and fluticasone.
- Take oral medication combos like Allegra-D.
- Use multi-ingredient nasal saline sprays.
Combination therapies fight congestion, swelling, and excess secretions – all factors that impair Eustachian tube function.
Oral or Topical Nasal Steroids
Oral or topical nasal steroids reduce inflammation for extended Eustachian tube opening.
- Oral steroids like prednisone provide powerful but temporary relief.
- Topical nasal steroids like mometasone (Nasonex) offer longer lasting benefits.
- Use daily for best results and avoid stopping steroids abruptly.
Prescription steroid medications are very helpful for chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation
Balloon dilation is a procedure to open a persistently closed Eustachian tube. A small balloon catheter is inserted into the tube and inflated to pop it open.
- Performed under local anesthesia in an ear, nose and throat doctor’s office.
- Effects may last 1-2 years before requiring redilation.
- Overall safe and effective but with a small risk of ear damage.
Balloon dilation should be considered for severe cases not improving with other treatments.
Eustachian Tube Surgery
Surgical procedures on the Eustachian tube are reserved for severe cases not helped by other therapies.
- A tympanoplasty repairs the eardrum and Eustachian tube.
- A tube placement (myringotomy) is insertion of ventilation tubes into the eardrum.
- These require general anesthesia but have high long-term success rates.
Consult an ear, nose and throat specialist if your symptoms warrant surgical correction.
Lifestyle Changes
Certain lifestyle modifications can also improve Eustachian tube function.
Quit Smoking
Smoking causes swelling in the nasal and sinus tissues surrounding the Eustachian tube. Quitting leads to less congestion.
Lose Weight
Obesity is linked with inflammation that can impair the Eustachian tube. Shedding excess weight reduces swelling.
Avoid Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke is associated with ear infections and fluid behind the eardrum. Stay away from smoke to keep the tube healthy.
Treat Allergies
Chronic allergies cause persistent inflammation that blocks the Eustachian tube. Identify and avoid allergens to prevent this.
Avoid Loud Noise
Prolonged exposure to loud noise can damage the Eustachian tube. Wear ear protection when around excessive noise.
Improve Nasal Hygiene
Rinsing the nasal cavity removes allergens and irritants that cause Eustachian tube swelling.
Avoid Cold and Flu
Viruses from colds and flu infect the nasal cavity and throat, causing inflammation near the Eustachian tube. Get annual vaccines and wash hands frequently.
Treat Acid Reflux
Stomach acid from GERD can reach the Eustachian tube and irritate it. Follow an anti-reflux diet and take antacids as needed.
Get Regular Exercise
Daily exercise reduces inflammation involved in chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction. Any activity like swimming or walking helps.
Home Remedies
Some home remedies may also provide relief for a blocked Eustachian tube:
Hot Compress
Applying a warm, moist compress around the ear draws blood flow to open the tube. Do not burn yourself.
Garlic Oil
Putting garlic oil drops in the ear is thought to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects on the Eustachian tube.
Ginger Tea
Ginger contains compounds that reduce inflammation and fight respiratory infections that cause tube swelling.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains potassium that draws out fluid and antimicrobial acetic acid that clears congestion.
Spicy Foods
The heat from spicy foods like chili peppers, horseradish, and wasabi may help stimulate blood flow and open the tube.
Mint
Mint and menthol have a cooling sensation that can soothe swollen nasal tissues surrounding the Eustachian tube.
Eucalyptus Oil
Inhaling eucalyptus oil provides a decongestant effect for upper respiratory inflammation impairing tube function.
Saltwater Gargle
Gargling warm salt water kills bacteria in the throat near the Eustachian tube and draws out excess fluid.
When to See a Doctor
You should make an appointment with your physician if you experience:
- Hearing loss, muffled hearing, or echoing sounds
- Fluid drainage from the ears
- Ear pain, pressure, or feeling of fullness
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Headaches
- Chronic infections or fluid behind the eardrum
These could indicate an underlying medical problem requiring treatment beyond basic home remedies for Eustachian tube dysfunction. Seek prompt medical care if you develop sudden hearing loss which could signify a serious problem.
Conclusion
The Eustachian tube is a small but very important passage in the ear responsible for pressure regulation and clearance. When it gets blocked, symptoms like muffled hearing and ear pain occur. Use swallowing exercises, nasal irrigation, oral medications and lifestyle changes to keep the Eustachian tube open longer. See an ear, nose and throat specialist if significant symptoms persist despite efforts to open this vital structure. With proper therapy, most people can enjoy good Eustachian tube function and clear hearing.