Does Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Increase Risk of Ear Infections?

Q: Does Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Increase Risk of Ear Infections?

Hello： Individuals with Eustachian tube dysfunction may still experience otitis media. <br>If there is only middle ear effusion and no deterioration in neurological function, hearing typically improves after the placement of ventilation tubes. <br>Wishing you peace and health. <b

Individuals with Eustachian tube dysfunction are more prone to developing otitis media?

Hello, doctor.
I have been experiencing abnormal hearing since I was 7 years old.
I feel like I can hear my own voice and breathing very loudly, and sometimes when I breathe, I even feel a vibrating and itchy sensation in my eardrum.
As a child, I often pulled on my ears, and when that didn’t help, I would forcefully sniff to try to pull my eardrum inward.
Later, when sniffing didn’t work, I would pinch my nose and inhale forcefully to achieve the same effect, but after a while, I would hear a popping sound and return to the uncomfortable hearing I had before.
As a child, I didn’t know how to describe this to adults, and it has continued until now.
Over the years, I have started to seek treatment more actively, visiting various clinics and large hospitals.
I noticed that many doctors were not very proactive after hearing my description; I’m not sure why.
Some either referred me to a larger hospital or suggested I use nasal sprays and take medication, with very few willing to spend extra time to conduct further examinations.
Finally, I learned about Eustachian tube dysfunction from a clinic doctor, and after Googling it, I found that it matched my symptoms perfectly.
After years of suffering, I finally had an explanation, but I also understood why many doctors were so dismissive; this condition is difficult to treat—it won’t kill me, but it can’t be cured.
Over the past two years, during March and April, I have developed otitis media due to nasal congestion and runny nose from colds.
This time, it was severe enough that one morning I woke up with an unusual amount of eye discharge, bloodshot eyes, orbital pain, headache, and nasal congestion.
The doctor diagnosed me with sinusitis and serous otitis media.
I have already undergone two tympanocentesis procedures to drain thick fluid from my middle ear, and the doctor suggested that if fluid accumulates again, I should consider getting tympanostomy tubes.
I want to ask, previously when I visited another hospital, the doctor firmly stated that Eustachian tube dysfunction does not lead to otitis media.
However, my symptoms since childhood are identical to those of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Can individuals with Eustachian tube dysfunction really not develop otitis media? Sigh, my hearing has also deteriorated.
If I do get the tubes and the issue of otitis media is resolved, how should I address the original hearing difficulties?

JJ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/20

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Individuals with Eustachian tube dysfunction may still experience otitis media.
If there is only middle ear effusion and no deterioration in neurological function, hearing typically improves after the placement of ventilation tubes.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/04/20

More Info

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) can indeed increase the risk of ear infections, particularly in individuals who have underlying conditions that affect the function of the Eustachian tubes. The Eustachian tubes are small passages that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat and help to equalize pressure in the ear, drain fluid, and protect the middle ear from pathogens. When these tubes do not function properly, it can lead to a buildup of fluid in the middle ear, creating an environment conducive to bacterial or viral infections.

In your case, it seems you have been experiencing symptoms consistent with ETD for many years, including a sensation of fullness in the ears, difficulty hearing, and discomfort. These symptoms can indeed be linked to recurrent ear infections, especially if you have had episodes of nasal congestion or sinus issues, as these can further impair Eustachian tube function. The fact that you have developed serous otitis media (fluid in the middle ear) and have undergone tympanocentesis (ear drum puncture) to relieve pressure indicates that your Eustachian tubes are likely not functioning optimally.

Regarding your question about whether individuals with ETD can develop middle ear infections, it is important to clarify that while ETD itself may not directly cause infections, it creates a predisposition for them. When the Eustachian tubes are dysfunctional, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear, which can become infected. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that individuals with ETD cannot have middle ear infections; rather, they may be at a higher risk due to the dysfunction.

As for your concerns about hearing loss and the potential placement of tympanostomy tubes (ear tubes), these tubes can help to ventilate the middle ear and prevent fluid accumulation, thereby reducing the frequency of ear infections. However, they do not address the underlying issue of Eustachian tube dysfunction. If you decide to proceed with the placement of ear tubes, it is essential to have a comprehensive plan for managing your hearing difficulties. This may involve further evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) to explore other treatment options, such as hearing aids or surgical interventions, depending on the extent of your hearing loss.

In summary, Eustachian Tube Dysfunction can indeed increase the risk of ear infections due to fluid buildup in the middle ear. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the infections and your hearing difficulties. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your ENT specialist will be key in managing your condition effectively.

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