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Ear tube inflation
ear inflation · Politzer maneuver · eustachian tube inflation · blocked ears treatment
The doctor blows air into the ear tubes, the channels that connect the nose and the ear. This helps even out the pressure in the ear.
For a blocked ear after a cold or a flight, an ear infection with fluid, or reduced hearing.
⏱ Duration: usually 5 to 15 minutes; a course is several sessions
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Nose. If your nose is blocked, the doctor may put in decongestant drops.
- Food. No special prep.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Past hearing test results
How it goes
- The doctor checks your ears and nose
- Sometimes drops are put in your nose
- A tip is placed in one nostril, and the other is pressed closed
- You are asked to say a word or swallow
- At that moment, a puff of air is given
- The doctor checks the result
What you'll feel
- You feel a push of air in the ear
- You may hear a noise or a pop in the ear
- A slightly unpleasant feeling in the nose
Afterwards
- The blocked feeling usually eases right away or after a few sessions
- Do not blow your nose hard
- The course and drops are as your doctor prescribes
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe ear pain after the procedure
- Discharge or blood from the ear
- Sudden hearing loss or dizziness
Common questions
Is ear inflation harmful?
When it is done for the right reasons, it is a safe procedure.
Can I inflate my ears myself?
Not without your doctor's advice. You can do harm.