Mask Squeeze

1. First Aid Essentials Slideshow Pictures
2. First Aid Bandaging Injuries Slideshow Pictures
3. First Aid Sprains & Strains Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Scott D. Fell, DO, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

Dr. Charles "Pat" Davis, MD, PhD, is a board certified Emergency Medicine doctor who currently practices as a consultant and staff member for hospitals. He has a PhD in Microbiology (UT at Austin), and the MD (Univ. Texas Medical Branch, Galveston). He is a Clinical Professor (retired) in the Division of Emergency Medicine, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and has been the Chief of Emergency Medicine at UT Medical Branch and at UTHSCSA with over 250 publications.

View Full Profile

• Mask Squeeze Definition and Overview
• Mask Squeeze Symptoms
• Mask Squeeze Treatment
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Author and Editor

Mask squeeze, also known as face squeeze is a feeling that occurs when scuba diving as a result of failing to equalize the pressure inside the diving mask. As a diver descends under the surface of the water, the pressure increases, which exerts pressure on the body. The air in the mask has more pressure put on it, and therefore becomes painful against the face unless the pressure is allowed to equalize. The way to keep pressure equalized in the mask is to exhale through the nose.

• Facial bruising and redness
• Facial pressure
• Nosebleed
• Red eyes or face
• Changes in vision (rare)

If a person experiences a mask squeeze, that person should discontinue diving until healed. Mask squeeze can be prevented by equalizing the pressure in the mask as the diver descends on their dive.

If changes in vision occur, see a doctor or eye specialist as soon as possible.

face squeeze, facial pain,scuba diving, ring around the face, vacuum effect, bruise, subconjunctival hemorrhage, scuba diving injury

Author: Scott D. Fell, DO, FAAEM

Editor: Charles P. Davis, MD, PhD

REFERENCE: DAN.org. Mask Squeeze.