Bloody nose, stuffy ears

[timle]

I didn't have the bloody nose problem nor am I a doctor so this might not apply to you at all.

But I got a major ear infection after one of my resort courses and after my open water check out dives. Both times I got it cleared up with some antibiotics and decongestants from my doctor. However the second time I asked about it affecting my ability to dive - so he gave me a prescription for Rhinocort (nasal steroid), I start taking it once a day a couple of days before any diving. This really opens up my sinuses. I also use an alcohol solution in my ears after diving to kill bacteria and prompt drying.

Ever since I've starting doing that equalizing has been a breeze and no ear problems at all. Also around the same time I started equalizing much more often, not just before I need to, but way before I feel the need to. This has also had a major effect, equalizing now is just a tiny nose plug and short bit of pressure.

Unforunately, unlike a scientist, I didn't change one variable at a time so I don't know which is the most effective - probably equalizing lots more, but I'll stick with my routine if it keeps me symptom free.

 

[pipedope]

You can learn a lot more about your ears and diving by watching the streaming video at;
http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/


It would have saved me lots of time, trouble and pain if it had been available when I first started diving.

 

[Fr3d]

I find steroid based nasal sprays are a lot more effective at stopping hayfever/allergies/sinus issues, especially most of the tablets I've tried recently have no effect. Might take them a few days to really start working, but once it works, welcome to a life where no sneezing or runny nose is the norm.

 

[DandyDon]

I find steroid based nasal sprays are a lot more effective at stopping hayfever/allergies/sinus issues, especially most of the tablets I've tried recently have no effect. Might take them a few days to really start working, but once it works, welcome to a life where no sneezing or runny nose is the norm.

I've heard it's not good to use those long term....??