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Scuba Diving: Ear Pain

Ear Pain, Scuba Diving - Overview

Ear pain is the most common complaint from scuba divers and is experienced by almost every diver at some point. Some divers call it ear squeeze. The pain occurs because of differences in pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment.



Next: Diving Ear Pain - Causes »

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Scuba Diving: Ear Pain

Ear Infection Overview

Infection can affect the ear canal (otitis externa), the eardrum, or the middle ear (otitis media). Most ear injuries are caused by pressure changes during direct injury (such as a blow to the ear) or sport scuba diving, but, a persistently painful ear may signal an infection that requires treatment. Because an ear scope (otoscope) may not be available to examine the canal and inner ear in remote locations, starting therapy may be appropriate until a doctor can be reached.

Picture of the outer and inner structures of the ear

Ear Infection Symptoms

  • Symptoms of ear infection include:

    • ear pain,
    • fullness in the ear,

    • hearing loss,

    • ringing,
    • discharge from the ear,

    • nausea,

    • vomiting , and

    • vertigo.
  • Symptom...

Read the Ear Infection article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Dysbarism »

Although dysbarism includes problems associated with high altitude and aerospace endeavors, dysbarism also relates to the increasing pressures of descending under water that are usually experienced in free or assisted dives.

Read More on eMedicine »

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