Eustachian tube dysfunction

[platypusrex]

I've had chronic ear infections in my right ear starting at 15 years old, I'm 30 now. The doctors say it's Eustachian tube dysfunction, and since 2009 I've had three tubes put in my right ear, the first two fell out but so far the third one's held on. That has decreased the infections somewhat, but I still get them. I asked my ENT if there was any way to prevent this and he laughed and said "Go back in time!" They seem pretty keen on treating the infections when I get them, but not finding a way to stop them. I get an ear infection in my right ear every time I get a cold or the seasons change. Is there any kind of surgery I can have to open up my Eustachian tube so it drains properly and I'm not plagued with ear infections? Please help!
-Jon

[platypusrex]

Thank you for the reply! I knew there had to be some surgical option. Once I switch ENT's, I'll know what to ask about!

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

If the Eustachian tube dysfunction, does not resolve with medical therapy, then surgical options are the choice of treatment. Since the tube is malfunctioning, measures to balance the air pressure are made in the ear.  Myringotomy, where a tiny slit is made in the eardrum to aspirate any middle ear fluid and to allow temporary ventilation into the middle ear space. Pressure Equalization Tube, PET, where  a tiny plastic or metal tube, is introduced into  myringotomy to keep the portal open.

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.

[Londres70]

Well, have you been prescribed a maintanance antihistamine and/or a decongestant?

"I asked my ENT if there was any way to prevent this and he laughed and said "Go back in time!"  Well, easy for him to chuckle about this because he isn't having the problem.  How insensitive.  You might want to get a second option about your condition.

A surgical option you might want to inquire about is a Myringotomy since you already had the tubes.