Is Eustachian Tube Dilation Surgery Safe Inspite Of Having Post Nasal Drip And Ear Problem?

Posted on Tue, 27 May 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 27 May 2014 Answered on

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi there. I have had post-nasal drip for about two years. In the past year, my ears feel full intermittently and I experience popping sounds constantly. I also have some sound sensitivity. No tinnitus or dizziness. I have been using Dymista for about a month, but haven't had much relief. Should I consider tubes or eustachian tube dilation surgery?

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
As below:

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The decision should be based on the results of your eardrum examination, Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) and an Impedance Audiometry (I/A).

2. if these tests are normal, no intervention is necessary. If these tests are abnormal, consider medication first (anti-allergic mucolytic, Dymista and steam inhalation) then ventilation tubes and finally Eustachian tube dilatation (in this order).

3. The popping sounds are due to the movement of the Eustachian tube and its muscles. These are normal.

4. Rule out sinusitis which may be the source of the post nasal drip with a Sinus CT Scan.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar