What are "Eustachian tubes"?

What are "Eustachian tubes"?

Jason Hamilton (Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon) gives expert video advice on: What are the most common ear diseases or conditions?; How do ears work? and more...

A Eustachian tube is a tube that connects the middle ear to the back of your nose. The Eustachian tube allows the pressure in the middle ear to be regulated so that when you're at high altitudes and the air expands, the air can get out of your middle ear. If the air had nowhere to, go your eardrum would rupture or burst in high altitudes. Or if you were swimming and you dive, you need to get air into your ears and the Eustachian tube allows you to regulate that pressure.