Ear infections are usually treated with antibiotics. If allergies are causing the ear infections, then it becomes important to find the source of the allergies. For instance, an allergy skin test may be performed, in which the skin is pricked with several potential allergens. If a rash or small bump develops, the patient is most likely allergic to that substance.

When an allergen is identified, the most effective treatment is to avoid the allergen, if possible. In addition, prescription medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, cromolyn sodium and corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce allergy symptoms. Successful treatment of allergies will in turn make eustachian tube problems – and thus, ear–related conditions – much less likely.

Ear-related problems are frequently caused by the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever). A physician may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy), which have been very successful at reducing the severity of symptoms. In this treatment, low doses of an allergen are injected into a patient over a period of time. The goal is to increase the patient’s tolerance to the allergen while reducing symptoms brought on by an allergic reaction.

Patients can practice several habits that will help keep their eustachian tube open. Swallowing activates muscles at the back of the throat that help pull open the tube. Eating, drinking and chewing gum can all activate this process. Babies also may open their eustachian tubes by sucking on a bottle or pacifier. Yawning has an even more pronounced effect on the throat muscles that open the tube.

Individuals can also take a deep breath, close their mouth, pinch their nostrils and blow. This often will force open the eustachian tube. However, this should be done with caution, because blowing too hard can damage the eardrums. Children can often safely open the tubes by blowing up balloons.

Home remedies can help reduce symptoms of ear-related conditions triggered by allergies. Reducing nasal congestion helps to open up both the nasal passages and the eustachian tube. The following steps can help clear both the nose and the ears:

• Use a saline solution to gently irrigate the nasal passages
  
  
• Apply warm compresses or heating pads to the ear and sinuses
  
  
• Take hot showers and use a vaporizer to dislodge nasal mucus
  
  
• Drink plenty of liquids, but avoid alcoholic beverages, which tend to swell nasal-sinus membranes
  
  
• Avoid tobacco smoke and other allergens that trigger symptoms

An adenoidectomy may be considered to relieve obstruction of the eustachian tubes. In this surgery, the adenoid glands are removed. The adenoids are located between the nasal airway and the back of the throat (nasopharynx).

Finally, myringotomy may be an option for patients who try various treatments, yet still have problems related to the eustachian tube. Myringotomy is the surgical placement of ventilation tubes into the ears to allow drainage of fluid from the middle ear. Such a procedure is considered safe for young children, who often experience a significant improvement in hearing.

Those who have allergies that trigger ear-related conditions should be particularly careful not to fly or scuba dive during flare-ups. These activities involve atmospheric pressure changes that can cause ear barotrauma, a discomfort in the ear. Those with blockage of the eustachian tube are more prone to barotrauma.