Latent Eustachian tube dysfunction in young athletes (swimmers, hockey players) with rhinosinusitis

The authors analyzed the effectiveness of a comprehensive treatment strategy for latent Eustachian tube dysfunction in young athletes with rhinosinusitis. There were 97 children aged 7—18 years who participated in swimming or ice hockey. Recovery of paranasal structures and Eustachian tube patency was assessed depending on sport and therapeutic interventions. Integration of physiotherapeutic modalities in standard pharmacotherapy was associated with better clinical effect compared to medication alone. The authors also describe the key features of a combined treatment protocol developed for these patients. The core component of therapy is management of nasal and paranasal inflammation improving rheological properties of nasal secretions with subsequent restoration of ostial patency and functional recovery of paranasal structures, Eustachian tube and middle ear.