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The effect of gestation on eustachian tube function in rats
1Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica. Supplementum
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Pregnancy may facilitate Eustachian tube opening, potentially easing symptoms like ear fullness. This study suggests reduced surface tension in Eustachian tube secretions during pregnancy is the likely cause.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Physiology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Patulous Eustachian tube (PET) causes autophony and ear fullness.
- Pregnancy or estrogen use is noted in one-third of PET patients.
- The Eustachian tube's function during pregnancy requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if pregnancy facilitates Eustachian tube opening.
- To explore the physiological mechanisms behind altered Eustachian tube function in pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Compared Eustachian tube opening pressure (Pol) in 14 pregnant rats versus 14 non-pregnant controls.
- Measured middle ear air pressure changes related to tube opening.
- Instilled a surface tension-lowering substance in two rats to observe pressure effects.
Main Results:
- Pregnant rats exhibited a lower pressure opening level (Pol) for Eustachian tube function.
- The pressure difference between Pol and open tube pressure was reduced in pregnant rats.
- Surface tension reduction in the middle ear mimicked pregnancy-related pressure changes.
Conclusions:
- Eustachian tube opening is facilitated in pregnant rats.
- Reduced surface tension of Eustachian tube secretions is proposed as the mechanism.
- Findings suggest a potential link between hormonal changes in pregnancy and Eustachian tube function.