Severe Complications With Eustachian Tubes

Ruptured Eardrum

A ruptured eardrum occurs when there's a tear or hole in the thin layer of tissue separating the ear canal from the eardrum, which can occur for a number of reasons, including issues with the eustachian tubes. This condition can cause hearing loss, and it can also make the middle ear vulnerable to injury or infection. While ruptured eardrums usually heal after a few weeks without needing treatment, a surgical repair or other medical procedure may be necessary to help it heal. One of the symptoms is ear pain which might subside quickly. Patients may also have bloody, pus-filled, or clear drainage from the ear, along with possible hearing loss. There may be tinnitus, along with a spinning sensation due to the affected balance.

Eardrum Retraction

When there are problems with the eustachian tubes, it could lead to an eardrum retraction. The eardrum, also referred to as the tympanic membrane, is a thin tissue layer separating the outer portion of the ear from the middle ear. A retracted eardrum occurs when the eardrum is pushed further inward, toward the middle ear rather than the outside of the ear. In the majority of cases, retracted eardrums don't cause symptoms. There are some cases, though, where the eardrum retracts far enough to press on the structures inside the ear or the bones in the ear. In these situations, patients might experience fluid draining from their ear, an earache, or temporary hearing loss. If the situation isn't treated, the condition can lead to permanent hearing loss.