Does A Clogged Drain Keep You Up At Night?
Do you see that tube labeled “Eustachian tube”? That is the anatomical drain for the middle ear. It is designed to drain fluid from the middle ear into the throat and prevent fluid build up and infection.
There are three sections of the ear: outer, middle, and inner. All three of these can have their own issues and “infections”. The outer ear can be irritated with swimmers ear while an inner ear issue can result in balance and equilibrium problems. The ear issue familiar to most is the middle ear infection (otitis media). This is very common in young children often treated with antibiotics, though the mayo clinic says that “most ear infections don’t need treatment with antibiotics”. In recurrent cases the medical field suggests inserting a tube in the eardrum to allow fluid buildup to drain through the ear canal as opposed to the Eustachian tube…but wait…why is the Eustachian tube not draining properly?
There are a few reasons that the drain might be clogged. The Eustachian tube is lined with smooth muscle that can spasm or become inflamed. The opening in the throat that is the end of the Eustachian tube can get clogged with thick mucus or food. The important question is to ask why the existing drain is not draining.
A specific chiropractic adjustment can help relax the smooth muscle that might be at the root of the middle ear infection. There may also be dietary issues. Here is a link to a few articles about ear infections and chiropractic care. If your child has ear infections or you have been told that he/she needs tubes, it might be wise to consult a specific chiropractor to see if the issue can be traced back to the spine and nervous system. Many children have been helped with their chronic ear issues and many have been able to avoid drugs and surgery. This has also allowed children and MANY parents to sleep a little more soundly through the night.
