ConnectionPilot

I have a dysfunctional eustachian tube and I'm trying to figure out what to do about it. It's smaller than normal so my ears don't equalize the pressure like they should. What do you think?

Oblique

I had three sets of tubes as a child. I had general anesthesia when it was done, but now you can have it done with a local anesthetic and be in and out in about an hour or so. Go for it, but keep in mind tubes eventually work their way out and you may need to have them put in again. Also, there will be scare tissue build up on and around your ear drum.

Brian3613

Connection pilot

I had the exact same problem you had in my right ear. I got tubes put in and the problem was solved. The tube I had was permanent so it will not work its way out. The only thing is, I can't get water in that ear so i need to wear an ear plug when I go swimming.

mike734

Are you guys talking about tubes in your ear drum? Is that a sutable method to deal with a small eustachian tube? Does it affect your hearing? I've seen photos of these tubes and it seems like it would have a dramatic effect on the ear drum. Do those tubes make your ear clear without any difficulty what so ever? Do you even feel a pressure change?

Sorry for the many questions, I've just always wondered about those tubes.

ConnectionPilot

Where did you get a permanent tube? I'd like to have that because I know that the temporary tubes won't help in the long term if they keep falling out.
What about wearing ear plugs when your in the shower lol. I've heard some people do that, do you have any problems without them?

fatmike69

I have the same problem, and was once considering the ear tubes as a solution. Problem with the tubes is that they can leave scar tissue over time, and especially the more permanent tubes will likely leave a permanent perforation, that could require another surgery sometime down the line. From what I understand, hearing also takes a hit with the tubes. How much depends on how big the hole in the tympanic membrane is.

I was fortunate in that I met a diver one day who tought me some very effective equalization techniques. It used to be that I would end up clogged about 70% of the time on descents (usually my left ear). A few times it led to a complete ear block, as fluid got sucked into it and it would be weeks before my hearing would be normal. After learning how to correctly and aggresively clear using diver techniques, I have not had an ear plug up on me at all over the last 4 years. I just have to be careful not to fly with a cold, as this can still do it. PM me if you are interested in learning these techniques, they are very effective, but somewhat difficult to master, and would take lots of posting space to spell them out.....