I also have been having problems with my left eustachian tube staying open,
when I swallow. Breathing and voice heard inside. When I eat the tube
works normally. This started in Feb 96, and went away during the summer
months, only to return in October, and it still bothers me. My
ENT finally recommended a septoplasty for my deviated septum, noting that
it may not help my ear. That was end of Jan. The septo. did not help my
ear. When I complained, he prescribed Tavis D or Sudafed. It helped to
make the E. Tube work better. Once in awhile while drinking it stays open,
but will close after a few seconds. Now I'm on prescriptions....Entex and
recently Claritin. These also help alot. Infact the Claritin keeps it
working, but still have fullness, crackling, slight ear pain and
distortions.
My question is: Is this a truly Patulous E. Tube or as my doctor thinks it
may be an allergy due to the winter air? What do you think?
Reply: -----------------------------
Your symptoms as described are certainly consistent with some type of eustachian tube dysfunction. It is difficult to know for sure based on what you are describing whether or not the problem is a patulous eustachian tube but audible noise consistently associated with respiration and autophony are the usual symptoms of this problem. It is however unusual to get consistent relief of these symptoms with decongestants or antihistamines.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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