Ease Persistent Ear Pressure
Find the cause of fullness, pressure, popping, or discomfort in your ears.
Why Does Your Ear Feel Plugged?
If your ear feels blocked, full, or pressurized without wax buildup, Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) may be the reason. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear with the back of the nose and throat. It helps balance pressure between the middle ear and the surrounding environment. When it does not open and close properly, pressure can build in the middle ear.
Common Questions
Wax affects the ear canal rather than the middle ear. If wax has been ruled out and your ear feels full or muffled, the issue may involve the middle ear or Eustachian tube.
Changes in altitude can make pressure equalization more difficult. For patients with ETD, this may result in pain, pressure, or fluid buildup.
Yes. Pressure or fluid in the middle ear can cause conductive hearing loss, making sounds seem muffled or distant.
I perform this procedure for appropriate candidates. See the Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation page.
Signs of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Ear fullness or pressure.
Muffled or reduced hearing.
Popping, clicking, or crackling sounds.
Difficulty equalizing pressure when flying, diving, or driving in mountains.
Ear pain, especially with altitude changes.
Fluid in the middle ear.
What Can Cause ETD?
ETD is often associated with inflammation in the nose and sinuses. Allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and upper respiratory infections are common contributors. Anatomical factors may also play a role.
How is ETD Treated?
Medical management, including nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, and treatment of underlying sinus or allergy conditions, is often the first step. For persistent ETD that does not respond to medical treatment, Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a minimally invasive option.