Simple tips for clearing the Eustachian tube
Sep 28, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
When riding a cable car or flying, ear ventilation problems may occur due to a pressure imbalance between the middle ear and the outside atmosphere. These issues can be relieved by techniques such as the Valsalva maneuver (pinching the nose and blowing) or using a Politzer balloon, which help open the Eustachian tube. These methods facilitate air passage into the nasopharynx through the Eustachian tube, alleviating discomfort and restoring proper ventilation.
When riding a cable car or an airplane, we may experience poor ear ventilation due to the difference between air pressure inside the ear and atmospheric pressure. This can be relieved by using techniques such as the Valsalva maneuver or the Politzer balloon inflation method to open the Eustachian tube. Details are as follows:
1. Valsalva maneuver: The patient should pinch both nostrils closed with fingers, open the mouth and puff out the cheeks while holding a breath, then close the mouth and swallow the trapped air, which helps force air from the throat into the Eustachian tube, achieving ventilation.
2. Politzer balloon inflation method: A doctor inserts the olive-shaped tip of a rubber Politzer balloon into one of the patient's nostrils, uses the index finger to close the other nostril, and then squeezes the balloon when the patient swallows, forcing air from the nasal cavity into the nasopharynx and through the Eustachian tube.
