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ENT Specialist St Louis – Sinus Allergy & Sleep Care FestusENT Specialist St Louis – Sinus Allergy & Sleep Care FestusENT Specialist St Louis – Sinus Allergy & Sleep Care FestusENT Specialist St Louis – Sinus Allergy & Sleep Care Festus
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  • GENERAL ENT
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    • Septoplasty
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EUSTACHIAN TUBE DYSFUNCTION (ETD) TREATMENT IN ST. LOUIS, MO

Addressing and Managing Chronic Ear Pressure

The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and upper throat. Their role is to drain fluid from the ear and equalize pressure. Normally, they open when you swallow or yawn. If these tubes become blocked or fail to function properly, a condition known as Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) may develop, leading to symptoms such as chronic ear pressure, discomfort, and recurring ear infections.

At St. Louis Sinus Center, our ENT specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating ENT conditions, including ETD.

Explore What’s Behind Your Ear Pressure & Discomfort

Common Symptoms of ETD

ETD symptoms vary in duration and intensity. Common signs may include:

  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
  • Plugged or stuffy ears (one or both sides)
  • Muffled or reduced hearing
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Clicking or popping when yawning or swallowing
  • Ear pain or discomfort

These symptoms may worsen during altitude changes, such as flying, elevator use, or driving through mountains.

Can ETD Cause Chronic Ear Infections?

When functioning properly, the Eustachian tubes drain fluid from the middle ear. If they malfunction, fluid buildup may occur, increasing the risk of recurrent ear infections. Associated symptoms can include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting

Identifying ETD as a contributing factor is essential in creating an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Medications for Mild or Temporary ETD

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.

  • Decongestants
  • Antihistamines
  • Nasal corticosteroid sprays
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers

In some cases, such as those linked to colds or altitude changes, symptoms may resolve without intervention.

Explore What’s Behind Your Ear Pressure & Discomfort

Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty for Chronic ETD

If symptoms are persistent or severe, balloon eustachian tuboplasty may be recommended. This is a minimally invasive, FDA-cleared procedure designed to restore Eustachian tube function in eligible patients.

How It Works:

  • A small balloon catheter is inserted into the Eustachian tube via the nasal passage
  • The balloon is gently inflated to widen the tube and promote better drainage and pressure regulation

Key Benefits:

  • Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
  • No incisions or external stitches
  • Typically completed in under an hour
  • Performed under local anesthesia
  • Some patients return to normal activity within 24 to 48 hours (results vary)

⚠️ Not all patients with ETD are candidates for balloon dilation. Your ENT provider will determine the best treatment based on your diagnosis and overall health.

Why Choose St. Louis Sinus Center?

  • Board-certified ENT specialists with expertise in ear, nose, and throat conditions
  • Advanced diagnostic tools, including nasal endoscopy and imaging
  • Minimally invasive treatment options focused on long-term relief
  • Personalized care plans based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and health goals

Take the First Step in Evaluating Your Ear Health

Chronic ear pressure and discomfort shouldn’t be ignored. Our team can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether ETD or another ENT condition is contributing to your discomfort.

I’m Ready for an ETD Evaluation

Individual results may vary.

The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.

OUR LOCATIONS

LADUE LOCATION

1588 S. Lindbergh Blvd #210
St. Louis, MO 63131

PHONE

(314) 450-7720

FESTUS LOCATION

1390 Highway 61 Suite 3100 Festus, MO 63028

PHONE

(314) 450-7720

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  • CALL US
    (314) 850-3913
  • Home
  • SCHEDULE ONLINE
  • SINUS
    • Sinus Treatment Services
    • Sinus Infection Treatment
    • Balloon Sinuplasty
    • Sinus Quiz
    • LATERA® Nasal Implant
    • Turbinate Reduction
    • Clarifix® For Chronic Rhinitis
  • Allergy
    • Allergy Treatment Services
    • Allergy Treatment
    • Allergy Testing
    • Allergy Drops
    • EpiPen
  • General ENT
    • Ear, Nose and Throat Treatment
    • Septoplasty
    • Deviated Septum
    • Nasal Polyps
    • Nasal Congestion
    • Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
    • Sleep & Snoring Treatment
  • About Us
    • James D. Gould, MD, FACS
  • Contact
  • Synergy
  • News
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility
ENT Specialist St Louis – Sinus Allergy & Sleep Care Festus