Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Offers Relief from Chronic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (Clogged Ears)
Have clogged ears and crippling ear pressure been plaguing you? Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a new treatment option that could provide you with lasting relief. If you’re experiencing clogged ears, muffled hearing, or dizziness, you may be suffering from Chronic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.
What is Eustachian tube dysfunction?
Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) means that the Eustachian tube is blocked or does not open properly. And if you’re experiencing Eustachian tube dysfunction, life can get pretty miserable.
With ETD, air cannot then get into the middle ear. Therefore, the air pressure on the outer side of the eardrum becomes greater than the air pressure on the inner side of the eardrum. The difference in pressure may cause discomfort, and make sharp hearing difficult. These conditions are often what cause patients to seek Eustachian tube balloon dilation surgery.
What Causes Eustachian tube dysfunction?
The most common causes of Eustachian tube dysfunction are:
- Excessive mucus
- Inflammation of the Eustachian tube caused by:
- cold
- flu
- sinus infection
- allergies
Symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction:
While the symptoms of Eustachian tube dilation can be annoying or painful at times, they can also be easy to recognize when seeking treatment.
- Your ears may feel plugged or full
- Sounds may be muffled
- You may feel a popping or clicking sensation
- 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 when you are flying (because of attitude changes)
- Frequent flying, riding in elevators, driving through mountains or diving may also make your symptoms worse
Untreated Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Complications
Untreated for extended period of time, Eustachian tube dysfunction may lead to serious complications:
- Damage to the eardrum and middle ear may occur
- The middle ear may become filled with fluid, requiring invasive drainage
Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Treatment
Eustachian tube balloon dilation is becoming an increasingly popular treatment option. Many patients find that decongestants simply don’t get the job done. Other patients find incisions and surgeries unappealing, rightfully so.
Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a procedure Dr. Kaplan now offers patients to open up the tunnel that connects the middle ear with the back of the nose. If balloon dilation is right for you, the procedure can be done right in the office.
The balloon can be placed in the Eustachian tube by going through your nose. You will first be given anesthesia to numb the inside of your nose. Then, Dr. Kaplan will insert and gently inflate the balloon to dilate the treatment area. The balloon dilation expands the Eustachian tube to restore its open pathway. After 2 minutes of dilation the balloon is deflated and removed.
Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Recovery
Eustachian tube balloon dilation recovery is practically effortless! Regular activities may often be resumed the next day. What’s more, the results of Eustachian tube balloon dilation are lasting- there shouldn’t be a need for a touch-up.
Find lasting relief from clogged ears today!
Ready to find out if Eustachian tube balloon dilation is right for you? Dr. Kaplan believes this procedure will be a significant advance for the millions of people who suffer from Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).
Get started on relief today, schedule an appointment now or call (713) 766-1818 for immediate relief.