One of the most commonly reported problems for SCUBA divers is uncomfortable pressure in their ears due to being unable to equalize. For some divers it’s a matter of learning a few techniques to alleviate it, for other divers it’s a constant activity to manage the pressure. Sadly, still other divers are unable to make the dive at all because nothing seems to bring relief.
While this decision may be a difficult one, it is medically wise. Continuing to descend while you are experiencing symptoms of pressure in your ears can cause severe pain and lasting damage. Fortunately, there are several ways that you can deal with this very common problem. Let’s take a closer look at our options.
Valsalva Maneuver
This is the easiest method to employ, and it is actually helpful not only to SCUBA divers, but in any situation where pressure is increased, like a plane, or a car trip over a mountain range. Simply hold your nostrils closed, and gently blow out through your nose. What this does is force the air in your throat into your Eustachian tubes, which connect your nasopharynx to your inner ear, where you are feeling the pressure. Because this area is delicate, you do not want to blow too hard — that could result in damage to your eardrums.
Toynbee Method
For this technique, pinch your nostrils and swallow. The muscles in your throat will engage the Eustachian tubes, while your tongue against the roof of your mouth will compress air against them. You can even try this out of water to feel the effect.
Lowrey Technique
This is a combination of the above two methods. While holding your nostrils closed, blow out and swallow simultaneously.
You can begin equalizing before you ever even hit the water. Many people find that chewing gum prior to and between dives helps to keep the Eustachian tubes open; even slight changes in air pressure will be equalized continuously. Equalizing your ear pressure at the surface, as well as continuously on your descent, will ensure a much more enjoyable dive. Remember to do this on your ascent as well.
If you are suffering from a cold or congestion, it is very important that you recover before attempting to dive. The added pressure in your nasal and sinus cavities will not allow you to equalize properly. For even more preventative measures, avoid alcohol, tobacco, and dairy before you know you are going to dive. All of these substances cause your body to produce more mucous, which is a significant contributor to the inability to equalize.
Most importantly, practice these techniques when you’re not diving. The more you do it, the more accustomed you will be to the effects of each technique. Nearly all divers that have trouble equalizing find a method to make it work. Never push yourself for the sake of the dive! Although SCUBA diving is one of the world’s most enjoyable activities, it simply is not worth inflicting real damage to yourself.
Photos via Thespis377, jenni from the block, joshstaiger
I like to use my tongue. Pressed against the roof of my mouth.
I swallow, seems to work great!
Valsalva and Toynbee. Unfortunately I have to decend slowly because of my sinuses, but once below 25-30 it’s a breeze. But when I come up at the end my mask fills with blood. Docs say not threatening and no big deal, they have a simple surgery that fixes that, but I will deal, no surgery in my face please!
Another method is to Valsalva more frequently as you descend. It may be annoying, but it works.
I have had to quit a dive once for lack of pressurizing. I was sad about it..but I just couldnt get it to equalize. Not worth the risks. Better to come back another day than ruin diving forever.
@ Matthew – Your technique is called Valsalva – I use both Valsalva and Frensel – The Frensel Maneuver is like a forcible exhale – only keeping air most of the air in the lungs and actually exhaliong none.
Frenzel. Valsalva uses the only air I have in my lungs. I’m a freediver.
I do the valsalva maneuver, don’t just do it when diving, pop your ears occasionally every day. You get used to it and it gets easier over time.
Thanks for the heads up. But, I still like to call it the tongue technique. =}
Swallowing works well for me but it takes a little longer using this technique. I would also mention that a good practice is to begin equalizing before you start your dive! t
This mask could help if you have ear issues… my friend uses a mask that covers the ears, and the air in the mask itself is linked to a tube that leads to the ear coverings. That way, if you breath into your mask and equalize the volume inside the lens area, it equalizes to your ears too. I think this is the company, they make different colors. His is black. http://www.proear2000.com/
All of the above. Whatever will do the trick for the day. It’s a constant battle. My ears are very cranky. Once I get past about 20 ft I’m usually good until the ascent when they really give me hell. Sounds like rice krispys for 2 days.
i bring an underwater calculator with me
By the way, I’ll add to my comment above that Leisure Pro sells these masks as well as hoodies that can accomodate the mask if you dive cold water.
Scuba: valsalva maneuver, Free-diving: attempt to swallow while nose is clipped
Keep up with the equalization, even if you dont feel pressure, keep equalizing using the valsalva maneuver. Try to aviod the “big pressure” feeling & the big “pop”, much easier on ear drums.
I’m not real sure what “method” I use! I do begin equalizing long before I am in the water. On th’ way down, with scuba, I equalize with every breath. I drop like a rock without any problem!
I’m not real sure what “method” I use! I do begin equalizing long before I am in the water. On th’ way down, with scuba, I equalize with every breath. I drop like a rock without any problem!
Do it early, do it often
VICKS NASAL INHALER before goin in my ear and sinus whistle their so clear about $2.00 really helps
i agree