kuulmekõõdust

Kuulmekõõdust refers to the Eustachian tube, also known as the auditory tube or pharyngotympanic tube. It is a narrow, cartilaginous and bony tube that links the middle ear to the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the throat behind the nose. The primary function of the Eustachian tube is to equalize pressure on both sides of the eardrum. It achieves this by opening during swallowing, yawning, and chewing, allowing air to enter or leave the middle ear. This pressure equalization is crucial for proper hearing and preventing damage to the eardrum.

The Eustachian tube also plays a role in draining fluid from the middle ear. Normally, it is closed and only opens briefly for these specific actions. If the tube becomes blocked, usually due to inflammation from a cold or allergies, it can lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, muffled hearing, and sometimes pain. Persistent blockage or dysfunction can result in middle ear infections or fluid buildup behind the eardrum. The anatomy of the Eustachian tube is slightly different in children compared to adults, which is why children are more prone to ear infections.