What is an Eustachian tube? It is the thing that connects the middle of the ear to the part of the throat known as the pharynx. Its name comes from Bartolomeo Eustachi, an Italian anatomist from the 16th century. However, other terms are used for this part of the body, including auditory tube.

What is a dysfunctional Eustachian tube?

Some individuals are born with a Eustachian tube that is particularly thin. There are at least two theories as to the cause of this. One states that there is a genetic factor, while the other says that the patient did not make a complete recovery from middle ear pressure that occurs during birth.

Regardless of the possible medical reason, those who have a dysfunctional Eustachian tube may have a higher incidence of ear infection development. Additionally, this issue can lead to excessive levels of mucus building up in the middle of the person's ear.

What are some of the functions of the Eustachian tube?

Mucus drains out of the middle ear through the Eustachian tube, which is why a narrow one can lead to a build up of that mucus as mentioned earlier. In usual circumstances, this tube stays closed, but at times it will open up in order to allow a bit of air through. This leads to pressure equalization between the middle of the ear and the surroundings. Yawning is one of the things that may manually assist in opening the Eustachian tube to equalize the pressure.

Return to the main page for information regarding ear infection symptoms.