PHX Reporter

• Eustachian tubes are small tubes that run between your middle ears and upper throat.
• Blocked eustachian tubes can cause pain, hearing difficulties and a feeling of fullness in the ears.
• One possible treatment for eustachian tube dysfunction is balloon dilation.

Dr. John Stewart of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers says sinus infections can cause blockages in the eustachian tubes, as well as pain, pressure or fullness in the ears, and even hearing loss.

“It may be a surprise to some people, but your ear, in fact, is a part of your sinus anatomy," Stewart told PHX Reporter. "The definition of a sinus is a mucous-membrane-lined cavity with a valve that drains into the nose. Your eustachian tube is a mucous-membrane-lined cavity, has a valve and connects your middle ear to your nose."

Sinus infections can cause blockage in the eustachian tube, which can cause temporary hearing loss or a sensation of being "underwater" or wearing earplugs.

"Eustachian tube dysfunction can occur due to untreated, chronic sinusitis and can cause symptoms such as pain, pressure and fullness in one or both ears,” Stewart said.

The eustachian tubes are usually closed, except when you chew, swallow or yawn, according to Healthline. Eustachian tubes are also responsible for equalizing ear pressure and draining fluid from the middle ear behind the ear drum. 

Since eustachian tubes are small, they can get blocked easily, leading to eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), which is common and often can heal on its own or with home remedies, such as chewing gum, yawning or using a saline nasal spray. 

In more severe cases, however, a visit to the doctor may be needed. One treatment for ETD is balloon dilation, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The procedure is relatively new and is minimally invasive. A study of 126 children who underwent the procedure found that there were no reported complications, and symptoms improved in 80% of cases.

If you're interested in learning more about ETD or sinusitis symptoms, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.