Why ear pain in diving?
2 min read
Asked by: John Slivinsky
Ear pain through scuba diving is common and is caused by the difference in pressure in the middle ear compared to the external pressure as you descend in the dive. Equalising at your decompression stops will usually prevent this pain, but in some circumstances, equalising may not be possible.
How do I stop my ears from hurting when diving?
The key to safe equalizing is to get air to flow from the throat to the ears through the opening of the normally closed eustachian tubes. Most divers are taught to equalize by pinching their nose and blowing gently. This gentle pressure opens the eustachian tube and flows air gently to the middle ear.
Can diving damage your ears?
Diving related inner ear problems are very rare, but have the potential to cause permanent hearing loss. There are two main types that can result in serious injury- inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) and inner ear barotrauma (IEBT).
Do ear plugs help when diving?
Unfortunately, we wouldn’t recommend earplugs when diving. The hearing membranes are not effective past a few feet, and in general, earplugs while diving can damage the ear canal and eardrum.
How do you relieve pressure in your ear?
To relieve ear pain or discomfort, you can take steps to open the eustachian tube and relieve the pressure, such as:
- Chew gum.
- Inhale, and then gently exhale while holding the nostrils closed and the mouth shut.
- Suck on candy.
- Yawn.
Why is my ear ringing after diving?
Scuba diving and air travel are common causes of ear barotrauma. Having a problem with your eustachian tubes may increase your risk of ear barotrauma. Ear barotrauma can cause ear pain, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and other symptoms. Usually, but not always, these symptoms are temporary.
How long does ear pressure last?
Mild symptoms of ear barotrauma usually last a few minutes. If they last longer, you may need treatment for an infection or another problem. Serious damage, such as a burst eardrum, may take a few months to heal. Sometimes you may need surgery to repair the eardrum or the opening into your middle ear.
Can earwax cause ear pressure?
Earwax Buildup & Blockage. Earwax, also called cerumen, is made by the body to protect the ears. The ear wax has both lubricating and antibacterial properties. Untreated buildup can lead to hearing loss, irritation, pain in the ear, dizziness, ringing in the ears and other problems.
