The most common cause of Eustachian tube dysfunction is when the tube gets inflamed and mucus or fluid builds up. This can be caused by a cold, the flu, a sinus infection, or allergies.
Some people are at greater risk for Eustachian tube dysfunction. They include:
- Children. Their tubes are shorter and straighter than those of an adult. This makes it easier for germs to reach the middle ear and for fluid to become trapped there. Also, children’s immune systems are not fully developed. This makes it harder for them to fight off infections.
- People who smoke. Smoking damages the cilia (the tiny hairs that sweep mucus from the middle ear to the back of the nose). This can allow mucus to gather in the tubes.
- People who are obese. Fatty deposits around the tubes can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction.