Research Article

Effects of smoking on Eustachian tube functions

Abstract

Background: Functions of Eustachian tube are essential for middle ear health, with impact on its equalization, ventilation, and protection. Smoking has been linked to altered Eustachian tube functions, thus, affecting its activities. Objectives: To assess the impact- of tobacco smoking on the Eustachian tube functions. Patients and methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 adults’ participants, whom divided into: group A: 50 smokers, and group B: 50 non-smokers, the Eustachian tube function was assessed via tympanometry, stapedial reflexes test (SRT), 9-steps Eustachian tube (ET) function test; inflation/deflation tympanometry test, as well as, linear regression analysis, a statical evaluation were studied, and compared. Results: Middle ear Pressure: in group A; -1.93± 15.54 SD * dapa, and in group B; 2.86±11.72 SD * dapa, compliance (ml): in group A; 3.94±0.63, in group B; 1.02±0.58, ear canal volume: in group A; 0.12±0.36, and in group B; 2.97±3.84, mean tympanometry peak pressure: in group A; basal -13.59± 8.47, Valsalva -9.48±32, Toynbee -7.46±9.83, and in group B; basal -29.81±5.37, Valsalva-27.49±6.75, Toynbee-59.32±1.14, type C tympanometry curve in group A; (96%), and type A curve in group B; (94%), nine-step inflation/deflation tympanometry test: in group A; (94%), and in group B; (6%), stapedial reflex absent: in group A; (94%) , in group B; (4%), the linear regression analysis: in group A; (R2 =0.867), with 1.62 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.34-2.12], and in group B; (R2= 0.0124). with 4.73 [95% confidence interval, CI 7.96-5.23]. Conclusions: A statically significant impairment in Eustachian tube functions among smokers’ group.