The Study of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

The Study of the Diagnosis of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD): Identifying the Relationship of Ear Fullness to Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between ear fullness, pressure, and/or pain and laryngopharyngeal reflux, in order to focus medical therapy and improve therapeutic outcomes in this patient population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• They complain of symptoms of ear fullness, ear pain, and/or ear pressure, either unilateral or bilateral
• They are willing to participate in the study.
• They are between the ages of 18 to 80

Exclusion Criteria:

• They have had major ear surgery (not including tympanostomy tubes)
• They have a medical condition that is another possible etiology of ear pain or acid reflux and may require additional medical or surgical intervention such as: Acute or chronic otitis externa, Chronic otitis media, Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, Upper aerodigestive track neoplasm, History of head/neck radiation therapy.
• They are pregnant. Proton pump inhibitors are a Category C drug with unknown pregnancy risks.
• They do not wish to participate in the study
• They are <18 or >80.