The Eustachian tube is an opening that connects the middle ear with the nasal-sinus cavity. The Johns Hopkins Eustachian Tube Health Center provides comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and management of Eustachian tube dysfunction that include medical, multidisciplinary and surgical approaches.
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Services We Offer Diagnosing and Managing Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
To better manage or evaluate whether the pressure or fullness in your ear is a problem in your Eustachian tube, your physician may recommend these tests and procedures:
- Tympanogram: This test is used to examine the function of the middle ear.
- Comprehensive audiometric evaluation: An audiologist will assess your ability to hear different sounds and words.
- In-office flexible nasopharyngoscopy: A small scope is placed through your nose, so that your physician can observe the function of the Eustachian tubes and assess for swelling, scars, and other findings typical of a disorder of the Eustachian tubes.
- Eustachian balloon dilation
Treatment options may include medication, surgery, dilation of the Eustachian tubes, and/or physical therapy to address underlying tension or stress in appropriate muscles.
Why Choose Johns Hopkins Eustachian Tube Health Center
Advanced Research
Our efforts include both clinical and public health-oriented research on the prevalence and impact of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Multidisciplinary Team
Our specialists include a team of surgeons, audiologists, physical therapists, and oral maxillofacial surgeons who work together in managing ear fullness and pressure.
Treatment Options
Our team offers a range of medical and surgical treatments for the management of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Comprehensive Approach
Our center brings together the latest evidence and tools to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction | FAQ
Otologist Carrie Nieman provides an overview of eustachian tube dysfunction and highlights the importance of a thorough evaluation to diagnose the specific type of dysfunction in order to ensure the best outcomes. Treatment options, which range from topical treatments to outpatient procedures, are discussed.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Nurse practitioner Rachel Hisim discusses eustachian tube dysfunction, which is characterized by ear pain or pressure in one or both ears and can result in muffled hearing. She reviews the underlying causes, management and treatment options.
New Treatment Option Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation
Balloon dilation is a new surgical technique for the management of specific types of Eustachian tube problems. This technique was approved by the FDA in 2017 and is widely recognized by insurance companies in January 2021. This procedure is an alternative to tympanostomy tubes (ear tubes). If your doctor diagnoses you with dilatory or obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction or baro-challenge Eustachian tube dysfunction, you may benefit from this procedure.