Ear Pressure Treatment
Relief for Persistent Ear Pressure & Popping
Eustachian tube dysfunction can cause fullness, popping, crackling and uncomfortable pressure in the ears when the middle ear is not ventilating properly.
Featuring Audion® Eustachian tube dilation technology.
Does This Sound Familiar?
When Your Ears Just Won't Equalize
Eustachian tube dysfunction can cause a range of ear symptoms. An ENT evaluation helps determine whether it may be contributing to what you are experiencing.
Ear Fullness
A persistent plugged or blocked feeling in one or both ears.
Popping & Crackling
Frequent popping, clicking or crackling sensations.
Pressure & Discomfort
Pressure similar to what some people experience when descending on an airplane.
Trouble With Altitude Changes
Symptoms may become more noticeable during flying, mountain travel or changes in barometric pressure.
Understanding the Condition
What Is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear space to the back of the nasal cavity.
Its job is to help ventilate the middle ear and equalize pressure.
When the tube does not open properly, pressure can build and patients may experience fullness, popping, crackling or discomfort.
Potential contributing factors may include:
- Genetics
- Allergies
- Nasal congestion
- Sinus infections
- Changes in barometric pressure
How Is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem.
Some patients may benefit from approaches designed to improve nasal congestion or help equalize ear pressure.
For persistent cases, other treatment options may include an ear tube, treatment of contributing nasal obstruction, or Eustachian tube balloon dilation.
A Minimally Invasive Option
What Is Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation?
Eustachian tube balloon dilation is designed to widen the cartilaginous portion of the Eustachian tube.
During the procedure, a small balloon catheter is guided through the nasal cavity to the opening of the Eustachian tube.
The balloon is temporarily inflated and then deflated and removed.
The goal is to improve the tube's ability to open and equalize pressure. Treatment recommendations depend on the patient's symptoms, examination and medical history.
What Does Treatment Involve?
Evaluation
Dr. Sonkarley evaluates the ears, nasal passages and symptoms to determine whether Eustachian tube dysfunction may be contributing to the problem.
Preparation
For appropriate office-based treatment, the nasal passage and Eustachian tube area are numbed using local anesthetic.
Balloon Dilation
The dilation device is guided through the nose to the Eustachian tube opening. The balloon is temporarily inflated and then removed.
Follow-Up
Patients receive individualized aftercare instructions and follow-up based on their treatment plan.
See How It Works
Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation
Educational video placeholder. Final procedure-specific video content will be added later.
Manufacturer educational content is provided for general information. Dr. Sonkarley will determine which treatment options may be appropriate for each patient.
What Can I Expect?
Before Treatment
ENTCare SWFL will review your symptoms, medications and treatment plan and provide individualized preparation instructions.
During Treatment
For appropriate office-based treatment, the nasal passages are numbed before the dilation device is guided through the nose to the Eustachian tube.
After Treatment
Some patients may temporarily experience increased ear pressure, nasal irritation or minor nasal bleeding. Follow the individualized instructions provided by ENTCare SWFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Other ENT Treatments
Inferior Turbinate Reduction
Featuring CELON®
For enlarged turbinates that contribute to persistent nasal obstruction and congestion.
Nasal Valve Collapse
Featuring LATERA®
For difficulty breathing through the nose associated with nasal valve collapse.
Are Ear Pressure & Popping Interfering With Your Day?
Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Price Sonkarley to determine what may be causing your symptoms and whether Eustachian tube treatment may be appropriate.