Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and Treatment

AERA™ Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System

For severe, un-resolvable cases of ETD, Excel ENT of Alabama now offers the AERA™ Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System. AERA™ Can Relieve Painful Symptoms due to ETD. AERA™ is the first balloon device to treat persistent Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) and relieve the source of chronic ear infection pain.

What are the Eustachian Tubes?

Eustachian tubes are small tubes that run between your middle ears and the upper throat. They are responsible for equalizing ear pressure and draining fluid from the middle ear, the part of the ear behind the eardrum. The eustachian tubes are usually closed except for when you chew, swallow, or yawn.

What Causes ETD?

These passageways are small in size and can get plugged for a variety of reasons. When the normal function of the eustachian tube becomes impaired, the body cannot maintain normalized pressure in the ear. This leads to pain or discomfort, sensation of fullness or muffled hearing, and other symptoms. Such a phenomenon is referred to as eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

Treatment for ETD

ETD is a relatively common condition. It affects approximately 1 percent of all adults in the U.S. Depending on the cause, it may resolve on its own or through simple at-home treatment measures. Severe or recurring cases may require a visit to the doctor as well as placement of pressure equalization tubes.

ETD affects approximately 1 percent of all adults in the U.S.

When the normal function of the Eustachian tube becomes impaired, the body cannot maintain pressure in the ear. This leads to pain, persistent ear infections, impaired hearing, tinnitus and other miserable symptoms.

eustachian tube dysfunction graphic

Clinically-Proven Alternative to Traditional Ear Tube Surgery

The AERA™ Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System is a revolutionary procedure to relieve painful symptoms related to Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. During the procedure, your skilled ENT doctor uses a catheter to insert a small balloon through the patient’s nose and into the Eustachian tube. The balloon is gently inflated, restoring airflow, and allowing the Eustachian tube to function properly again. After the tube is dilated, the doctor deflates and gently removes the balloon. Patients will experience fast, effective relief without the inconvenience of hospital visits.

Minimally-Invasive, In-Office ETD Treatment

ETD has normally been treated with medication and ear tube surgery. Failure to address the underlying problem can lead to chronic symptoms, infections or related long-term complications.

hearing loss appointment

Quality Care Available Now to Birmingham Patients

If you are experiencing pain related to chronic ear infection symptoms, call today to find out if you may be a candidate for Eustachian Tube Dilation. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be happy to address all of your questions and concerns. Proudly serving ear, nose, and throat patients in the Birmingham area.