With children, the eustachian tube and the muscles that keep it open are still developing. This sometimes interferes with the tube's ability to function properly, causing greater potential for infection. For adults, the trouble usually stems from a eustachian tube that's either too narrow or chronically inflamed and swollen from allergies. This can lead to feelings of discomfort or fullness and decreased hearing. It also causes pain during airplane flights when pressure builds up in the eustacian tube.
Ear tubes act as an escape mechanism to keep pressure equalized.
The tube remains suspended in the eardrum by a special flange. Novocain is used to numb the site of the incision and there is minimal discomfort. Once the tube is in place, it can't be felt. Typically, a tube is designed to remain in the ear for about six to nine months. It falls out spontaneously when the natural clearance mechanism of the ear releases it along with wax and other debris.