Call Or Text: (512) 434-0494
BOOK NOW
  • Patient Portal
Austin Ear, Sinus & AllergyAustin Ear, Sinus & AllergyAustin Ear, Sinus & AllergyAustin Ear, Sinus & Allergy
  • Home
  • Sinus
    • Sinus Treatment Services
    • Sinus Infection Treatment
    • Balloon Sinuplasty
    • Sinus Quiz
  • Allergy
    • Allergy Treatment Services
    • Allergy Treatment
    • Allergy Testing
    • Allergy Drops
    • Allergy Quiz
  • General ENT
    • General ENT Services
    • Septoplasty
    • Deviated Septum
    • Nasal Polyps
    • Nasal Congestion
  • Ear & Hearing Loss
    • Ear & Hearing Loss Services
    • Ear Infections
    • Tinnitus
    • Hearing Loss & Testing
    • Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
    • Ear Wax Removal
    • Otosclerosis
    • Cholesteatoma
    • Balance Disorder Treatments
  • About Us
  • Contact
Call: (512) 434-0494
Request Appointment

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) Treatment in Austin, TX

Explore Personalized Strategies for Chronic Ear Pain and Pressure

The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and the upper throat. Their primary function is to equalize ear pressure and allow fluid to drain from the middle ear. These tubes typically open during actions such as swallowing or yawning. However, they can sometimes become blocked or fail to open properly, which may contribute to a condition known as Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD). ETD can be associated with symptoms such as ear pressure, discomfort, muffled hearing, or recurring ear infections.

At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, our ENT care providers are trained in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ENT conditions, including ETD.

Book a Visit to Discuss Your Ear Symptoms

What Are the Common Symptoms of ETD?

ETD symptoms vary from patient to patient in both severity and duration.

  • A feeling of fullness, pressure, or stuffiness in the ear
  • Ear pain or discomfort
  • One or both ears feel “plugged”
  • Muffled or reduced hearing
  • Ringing in the ears without an external source (tinnitus)
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the ear

Symptoms of ETD may worsen with altitude changes (e.g., using elevators, flying on planes, or driving through mountains). If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider.

Can ETD Cause Chronic Ear Infections?

When the Eustachian tubes malfunction, fluid buildup in the ears may occur. In some cases, this can potentially increase the risk of recurring ear infections. Symptoms may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Balance issues
  • Headaches
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting

A thorough evaluation is important to determine the best course of treatment for your condition.

Treatment Options for ETD

Our ENT care providers at Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy will tailor treatment plans based on the patient’s symptoms, their severity, and the underlying cause. Treatment may include medications or minimally invasive procedures.

Medications for mild or temporary ETD

Some cases of mild ETD may benefit from standard medications, such as:

  • Decongestants
  • Nasal corticosteroid sprays
  • Antihistamines
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers

In cases where ETD is temporary, such as those linked to altitude changes or the common cold, symptoms may resolve on their own.

Balloon dilation for severe or chronic ETD

Balloon dilation is a minimally invasive, FDA-cleared procedure that may be considered for select patients with chronic ETD. It is intended to help improve Eustachian tube function in appropriate cases. Your ENT provider will determine if this option is suitable based on your clinical evaluation. Individual results may vary.

The potential benefits:

  • The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure.
  • It takes approximately one hour or less.
  • There are no incisions or stitches, so there is no visible scarring.
  • Some patients may resume light activities within 24 to 48 hours, but recovery timelines vary.
  • This procedure may help improve ear pressure regulation and fluid drainage in appropriate patients. Individual results vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed. Your ENT doctor will assess whether this is the proper treatment for you.

How it works:

  • During the procedure, a small balloon catheter is inserted through the nasal passage and into the Eustachian tube.
  • Once in place, the balloon is gently inflated to widen the passages.
  • Then, the balloon is gently deflated and removed.

Note that not all patients with ETD will require balloon dilation. A consultation with your ENT care provider will help determine if this is the appropriate treatment for you.

Why Choose Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy?

✅ We have board-certified ENT doctors who are trained in diagnosing and treating ear, nose, and throat conditions, including ETD.

✅ We use modern diagnostic tools, including nasal endoscopy and imaging.

✅ We prioritize a patient-first approach and customize care plans based on each patient’s unique health profiles, conditions, lifestyles, and health goals.

✅ We offer minimally invasive treatment options that aim to provide relief with minimal downtime.

Don’t Ignore Persistent Ear Pain or Discomfort

It can be difficult to live with chronic pain and pressure in the ears. Our ENT team at Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy offers ear testing and evaluations to better understand your symptoms and other potential contributing factors. We develop evidence-based and supportive ENT care plans to support overall ear health.

Schedule a visit to explore ETD and treatment options

natinalbreathefree-affiliate-logo-001

Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.

Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy

ADDRESS

12319 N. Mopac Expy
Building C, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78758

PHONE

(512) 454-0341

FAX

(512) 454-9915

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

Quick Links

HOME

SINUS

ALLERGY TREATMENT

GENERAL ENT

EAR & HEARING LOSS

ABOUT US

CONTACT US

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility
© Copyright 2026 Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy | All Rights Reserved
  • (512) 454-0341
  • Patient Portal
  • Home
  • Sinus
    • Sinus Treatment Services
    • Sinus Infection Treatment
    • Balloon Sinuplasty
    • Sinus Quiz
  • Allergy
    • Allergy Treatment Services
    • Allergy Treatment
    • Allergy Testing
    • Allergy Drops
    • Allergy Quiz
  • General ENT
    • General ENT Services
    • Septoplasty
    • Deviated Septum
    • Nasal Polyps
    • Nasal Congestion
  • Ear & Hearing Loss
    • Ear & Hearing Loss Services
    • Ear Infections
    • Tinnitus
    • Hearing Loss & Testing
    • Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
    • Ear Wax Removal
    • Otosclerosis
    • Cholesteatoma
    • Balance Disorder Treatments
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility
Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy