While most cases of ear barotrauma are mild, some acute cases can exhibit with tinnitus, moderate to severe hearing loss, intense pain, vertigo and bleeding in the ears. To prevent ear barotrauma from becoming severe, practice these methods to equalize pressure:<\/p>\n
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- The Valsalva maneuver<\/li>\n
- Swallowing or yawning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Let\u2019s look at each of these a little more closely.<\/p>\n
The Valsalva Maneuver<\/h2>\n
![\"Man](\"https:\/\/sfaudiology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Man-looking-out-the-window-of-a-plane-768x512.jpg\" "\\"Passengers")
<\/p>\nThe Valsalva maneuver is an excellent method for equalizing pressure underwater and during a flight. To perform the maneuver, plug your nostrils, close your mouth and blow as if you\u2019re blowing into a tissue. Do this early and often during a flight or dive to prevent ear barotrauma from occurring or becoming severe.<\/p>\n
Swallowing or Yawning<\/h2>\n
Swallowing and yawning are great ways to activate the muscles that open your Eustachian tubes<\/a>. You can promote extra swallowing during a flight by chewing gum or sucking on a hard candy. If diving, pinch your nose before swallowing to avoid sucking in air.<\/p>\n
Middle ear barotrauma is the most common condition<\/a> among inner-ear disorders in scuba divers and an estimated 10% of adults experience changes to their eardrum pressure during and after flights<\/a>. Although ear barotrauma usually resolves itself, practicing these prevention methods will help reduce the likelihood of the symptoms becoming severe<\/a>.<\/p>\n
For more information on protecting your ear health, contact San Francisco Audiology<\/span> today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.<\/p>\n