14 Causes of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
10. Tonsillitis
The tonsils work in the same way as the adenoids to keep pathogens and infections out of the body. The tonsils are located below the adenoids, but still attached to the ears and the eustachian tube. Tonsillitis is caused by inflamed or infected tonsils. They can be red, sore and swollen.
They can swell so much they block the eustachian tube and cause dysfunction. Tonsillitis can be treated with antibiotics, which fight infections and reduce inflammation. If antibiotics don’t work, the tonsils can be surgically removed.
The eustachian tube can be opened again once the swelling subsides. This will allow the fluid to drain correctly from the ears. Many people have tonsillitis repeatedly before they decide to remove their tonsils. Children recover faster than adults.
