Learn about Eustachian tubes, their role in regulating ear pressure, preventing infections, and maintaining ear health. Discover why they are essential for hearing and balance.

The eustachian tube is a canal that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx, which consists of the upper throat and the back of the nasal cavity. It controls the pressure within the middle ear ...

Answer: The eustachian tube is about 36 mm (about 1 1/2 inches) long and connects the middle ear with the throat. Its main job is to equalize pressure in the air-filled middle ear.

The eustachian tubes help regulate pressure inside the ear. If they become plugged or infected, this can lead to eustachian tube dysfunction. Learn more.

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) can usually be treated on your own, but depending on the cause or severity of symptoms, you may need to see a doctor.

Patulous eustachian tube is an ear-related condition that is not severe but can affect quality of life. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment here.

Inflation of the eustachian tube via the Valsalva maneuver can further break the negative pressure. 2 If symptoms do not go away within a few days, other treatment may be necessary.

Medically reviewed by Benjamin F. Asher, MD A sore throat and ear pain often occur together, since the throat and ears are connected by the Eustachian tubes. When there is a problem in your ears ...

Dear Doctor: My hearing loss is related to my Eustachian tubes: They stay closed. I can open them and improve my hearing by holding my nose and blowing, but the ...