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Can nasal decongestants improve eustachian tube function?
Attila Ovari1, Anne Buhr, Mareike Warkentin
1*Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Medical Center; †Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Marine Technology, Department of Material Science and Medical Engineering; and ‡Institute for Biostatistics and Informatics in Medicine and Ageing Research, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
Summary
Nasal decongestants did not improve eustachian tube (ET) opening in patients. Acute studies showed no benefit, with some cases even demonstrating reduced ET function after decongestant use.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The eustachian tube (ET) plays a crucial role in middle ear ventilation and pressure regulation.
- Dysfunction of the ET can lead to various middle ear pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of nasal decongestants on eustachian tube opening.
- To determine if xylometazoline improves ET function in patients with and without eardrum defects.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, nonrandomized study conducted at a tertiary referral center.
- Nasal or intratympanal administration of xylometazoline 0.1% in patients with intact or perforated eardrums.
- Eustachian tube opening was assessed using the Estève method and pressure equalization tests.
Main Results:
- Nasal decongestant administration generally had no significant effect on eustachian tube opening.
- Improvement in ET opening was observed in only a minority of patients.
- A decrease in ET function was noted in some cases.
Conclusions:
- Acute administration of nasal decongestants does not enhance eustachian tube ventilatory function.
- Current evidence does not support the use of nasal decongestants for improving ET opening.
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