Sinonasal risk factors for eustachian tube dysfunction: Cross-sectional findings from NHANES 2011-2012

Sinonasal pathology is frequently cited as a cause of eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), despite a lack of evidence. Using a large, nationally representative sample, we investigated whether abnormal tympanometry, an objective marker of ETD, was associated with infectious, allergic, and exposure-related sinonasal risk factors.

Relevant data were extracted from the 2011-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Tympanometric types (A, B, and C) were determined using peak pressure and compliance values. Participants with a type B or C tympanogram in at least one ear were classified as having ETD. Demographic and clinicopathologic risk factors with putative associations with ETD were determined. Statistical analysis, including regression modeling, was performed using Stata (version 15.1) to determine the correlation between sinonasal factors and ETD.

The final analysis included 1253 subjects and 19 variables. We controlled for demographic data including age, gender, race, and income. In both univariate and multivariate logistic regression, statistically significant correlations were found between abnormal tympanometric values and: (1) having a persistent cold/flu in the last 12 months (univariate: adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.42; p = 0.006; multivariate: adjusted OR, 2.15; p = 0.006); and (2) experiencing "hay fever" (ie, allergic rhinitis) within the last 12 months (univariate: adjusted OR, 1.95; p = 0.021; multivariate: adjusted OR, 1.71; p = 0.039).

Using a large, representative data set, we identified significant correlations between ETD and (1) persistent cold/flu symptoms and (2) self-reported allergic rhinitis.