Cold

[SmileMon]

Hi

I had the cold for the past week, it started with my last dive about a week ago.

I think I'm almost over it, I can clear my ears with a bit of pressure (a bit more than usual - in the beginning I couldn't even do that).

I was wondering if anyone has a trick to make it go away fast... I want to dive without a permanent damage to my ears...

Ofcurse I can wait, but if someone knows a trick, why wait? then again, if someone thinks I shouldn't take the chance (even with a quick fixup), its time to tell me... I wouldn't want to mess up my diving career before it even started...

Yes, I know the risk of reverse block, but if I can clear it now, how hard is it going to be underwater?

Usually I dive with my eustachian tubes open 90% of the dive (there's a muscle in the throat that keeps them open for those who didn't know), but its pretty hard to do in my state..

Thanks!!!

 

[Fish_Whisperer]

A decongestant/antihistamine may help. Be aware that these medicines will dry you out and contribute to dehydration, so be aware of that and boost your fluid intake a little more than you normally would. Clear your ears before you hit the water. Clear them with every breath as you descend. If, at any point, you begin having a lot of difficulty, ascend a little and try again. Do not force it! If you still can't get it to clear, scrub the dive. Good luck, and I hope you are feeling better and that your dives go off without a hitch.