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Eustachian tubes

Ear anatomy showing ear canal, eardrum in middle ear, and eustachian tube coming out of middle ear.

When you yawn or swallow, the eustachian tubes open briefly and make the air pressure equal inside and outside the ears.

The eustachian tubes drain fluid from the ears. But if a tube can't open, fluid can get trapped in the middle ear. This creates pressure that can cause ear pain.

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.