1. Changes in Air Pressure Cause Barotrauma
Barotrauma most often occurs during air pressure changes associated with scuba diving or flying. The tube (Eustachian tube) that leads from the inner ear to the nose and the back of the throat usually provides a space for air flow in the middle ear. This causes the pressure in the middle ear to match the outside air pressure. A blocked Eustachian tube can prevent this equalization and apply too much pressure for the eardrum, resulting in discomfort. Nasal congestion is a contributing factor to barotrauma. This condition produces even more pressure on the eardrum by filling the Eustachian tubes with fluid.
2. Hearing Loss can Occur
Symptoms of barotrauma can include ear pain, loss of balance or a feeling of ear fullness. Severe cases of barotrauma can cause a significant loss of hearing, pain in the ears, bloody noses and ear pressure. Most hearing loss returns when barotrauma heals.
3. Ways to Unblock the Eustachian Tubes
Chewing gum or yawning can sometimes open the Eustachian tubes and relieve the pain of barotrauma. People who suffer barotrauma during flights should stay awake while the airplane descends. You also can use a modified version of the Valsalva maneuver to treat barotrauma. Instead of inhaling, close the mouth and hold the nose closed while exhaling forcibly. Barotrauma sufferers should exhale gently to open the Eustachian tubes.
4. Divers Should Keep Clear Heads
People can prevent barotrauma while diving by clearing their heads before entering the water. Pressure builds up quickly when nasal passages are congested and blockages in the Eustachian tubes can exert even more pressure on the inner, middle or outer ear. Antihistamines and decongestants can relieve congested nasal passages and keep the Eustachian tubes clear.
5. Barotrauma Can Rupture Tympanic Membranes and Produce Ear Infections
Problems caused by barotrauma may include a ruptured tympanic membrane, or eardrum. The eardrum is a thin piece of tissue that separates the outer and middle ear; it vibrates when sound hits it. When the membrane ruptures, sound waves no longer move the eardrum and hearing loss occurs. A ruptured eardrum usually heals itself completely within two months, and full hearing can return once the membrane is intact again. Barotrauma can also contribute to acute ear infections, causing a buildup of fluid behind the eardrum. These infrequent ear infections often clear on their own, but sometimes require antibiotics.
