Blocked Ear and Balloon Eustachian Tube Dilation
The Eustachian tube connects the back of the nose to the middle ear. It opens briefly when you swallow or yawn, to balance the pressure in the ear and let it drain.
Signs the tube isn't working well
- A blocked or full feeling in the ear that doesn't clear
- Muffled hearing
- Popping or crackling sounds
- Ear discomfort with pressure changes, such as flying or travelling to the hills
- Repeated fluid behind the eardrum, or an eardrum that is pulled inwards
- A hole in the eardrum that keeps coming back after surgery
Common causes
Colds, allergy, sinusitis, acid reflux, and enlarged adenoids in children.
Tests
Examination of the ear and nose with an endoscope, a pressure test of the eardrum (tympanometry) and a hearing test. A CT scan is needed in some patients.
Treatment starts with medicines
- Treating allergy, sinusitis or reflux
- Steroid nasal spray and medicines to thin mucus
- Exercises to open the tube gently, as we show you in the clinic
We avoid routine antihistamines unless there is clear allergy, because drying the secretions can slow the tube's recovery.
When is balloon dilation advised?
For selected patients whose symptoms continue despite proper medical treatment, for example:
- Long-standing blocked ear or repeated fluid behind the eardrum in adults
- An eardrum that keeps pulling inwards
- Repeat ear surgery, or eardrum grafts that haven't held
In children, adenoid treatment comes first. Balloon dilation is considered only in selected older children, usually above 12 years.
How is it done?
- Under anaesthesia, an endoscope is passed through the nose to the opening of the Eustachian tube.
- A small balloon is placed in the tube and gently inflated with saline for about two minutes, then removed.
- There are no cuts, and it is usually day-care surgery. It can be combined with other nose or ear surgery.
Is it suitable for everyone?
No. It is not used when the tube stays abnormally open (patulous Eustachian tube), and a CT scan is reviewed first when needed. We'll explain whether it suits you.
After the procedure
Improvement is usually gradual over a few weeks. Avoid forceful nose-blowing and flying for a short period, as advised. Side effects are usually minor, such as a small nosebleed or temporary ear discomfort; serious complications are rare.
Studies, including a randomised trial, have shown better results with balloon dilation plus medical treatment than with medical treatment alone in selected patients.
Read more about ear problems and ear surgery.
Book a consultation
Call 81390 05150 or message on WhatsApp. See clinics and timings.