What purpose does the auditory tube serve?

Overview. The eustachian tube (pharyngotympanic tube) connects the middle ear cavity with the nasopharynx. It aerates the middle ear system and clears mucus from the middle ear into the nasopharynx. Opening and closing functions of the eustachian tube are physiologically and pathologically important.

What Innervates the auditory tube?

Motor innervation to the muscle attachments of the Eustachian tube is provided by the pharyngeal plexus of the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) and the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V).

What is ostium of auditory tube?

On the lateral wall of the nasal part of the pharynx is the pharyngeal ostium of the auditory tube, somewhat triangular in shape, and bounded behind by a firm prominence, the torus or cushion, caused by the medial end of the cartilage of the tube which elevates the mucous membrane.

What two structures do auditory tubes connect?

The eustachian tube (pharyngotympanic tube) connects the middle ear cavity with the nasopharynx. It aerates the middle ear system and clears mucus from the middle ear into the nasopharynx.

Can food enter the eustachian tube?

The simple act of swallowing helps the muscles in the back of the throat open up the Eustachian Tube, for example. You can do things that promote swallowing like chewing gum, eating, or drinking.

What’s the tube that connects ear to throat?

Eustachian tube. A canal that links the middle ear with the back of the nose. The eustachian tube helps to equalize the pressure in the middle ear. Having the same pressure allows for the proper transfer of sound waves. The eustachian tube is lined with mucous, just like the inside of the nose and throat.

How do you unblock eustachian tube naturally?

You may be able to open the blocked tubes with a simple exercise. Close your mouth, hold your nose, and gently blow as if you are blowing your nose. Yawning and chewing gum also may help. You may hear or feel a “pop” when the tubes open to make the pressure equal between the inside and outside of your ears.

How can I clear my eustachian tube naturally?

Try forcing a yawn several times until the ears pop open. Swallowing helps to activate the muscles that open the eustachian tube. Sipping water or sucking on hard candy can help to increase the need to swallow. If yawning and swallowing do not work, take a deep breath and pinch the nose shut.

Where is the auditory tube located in the ear?

The auditory tube, sometimes called the eustachian tube, is a tiny channel that runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat (nasopharynx). The auditory tube has several important functions: 2 

What happens to the auditory tube when you swallow?

When you swallow, your auditory tube opens and equalizes the pressure automatically. Broadly speaking, auditory tube dysfunction occurs when the eustachian tube either fails to equalize air pressure or is unable to clear mucus from the middle ear. If air pressure changes rapidly, it can cause discomfort, pain, and even a ruptured eardrum. 2 

Why does the auditory tube close in children?

It may close in response to loud noises to protect delicate ear structures. It clears mucus from the middle ear, allowing it to drain into the back of the throat. The auditory tube in children runs at a more horizontal angle than in adults. With age, the tube enlarges and gradually becomes more vertical to facilitate better drainage.

What are the symptoms of auditory tube dysfunction?

These are just some of the symptoms associated with auditory tube dysfunction (also known as eustachian tube dysfunction). It can be caused by any number of conditions but is most associated with either an accumulation of mucus or an imbalance of air pressure in the middle ear. 1