Can clogged Eustachian tubes cause permanent hearing loss?

Chronic ear infections resulting from clogged Eustachian tubes can potentially cause conductive hearing loss, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Conductive hearing loss can be temporary or permanent and it results when a clogged tube keeps sound from reaching the middle ear.

Eustachian tubes run from inside the ears to the rear of the throat, and under healthy conditions they act as drainage channels, according to WebMD. Swelling from allergy, cold or sinus infection can hinder the Eustachian tubes from opening, which results in fluid becoming trapped in the middle ear. Present bacteria multiplies and a vacuum effect draws in additional bacteria.