Eustachian tube

/juːstˈeɪʃən tjˈuːb/

/juːstˈeɪʃən tˈuːb/

[noun]

Eustachian tube

[NOUN]

a small passageway that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, helping to equalize air pressure

synonyms : auditory tube

What is "Eustachian tube"?

The Eustachian tube, also known as the auditory tube, is a small passageway that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. It plays a crucial role in equalizing the air pressure between the middle ear and the environment. The Eustachian tube is responsible for regulating pressure changes in the middle ear, allowing the ear to function properly. It opens during activities like swallowing or yawning, allowing air to enter or leave the middle ear and equalize the pressure. This action helps to protect the eardrum from damage and ensures optimal hearing. Additionally, the Eustachian tube serves as a drainage pathway for fluid that may accumulate in the middle ear, helping to maintain a healthy and balanced ear environment.

Examples

1. Clefts will often affect what's called the Eustachian tube which regulates the fluid in and out of the middle ear.

2. And for each, it travels across the mouth and through a channel called the eustachian tube which connects the mouth to the tympanic membrane on the other side.

3. It’s connected to the back of your throat by a eustachian tube, which is what make your ears do the popping thing.

4. Because if you blow too much air through your eustachian tubes you could tear your eardrum, or just send gross stuff from the back of your throat into your middle ear.