Ear pressure/Tinnitus after diving

[soamelt]

I did two beach dives last Saturday, mad depth 18fsw. On my second one I had a very difficult time equalizing my left ear at 10fsw. After fighting through some pain/discomfort and ascending a few times up to the surface, I was able to finally equalize my left ear. I had no problems on the rest of the dive. I have since felt a slight pressure and tinnitus on that ear since. I emailed DAN on Wednesday to which I got a prompt reply, not to worry and perhaps take some Sudafed and Advil (which I've been for the last three days).

Has anyone had this problem before? If so, how long did it take to clear it up? Is it safe for another shore dive this weekend?

Greg

 

[Brian Sharpe]

If it's still bothering you I'd suggest you see a doctor before diving just to make sure.

 

[don Francisco]

Soamelt, it isn't rare for mild middle ear barotrauma to take a week or so to clear up. During the time that the ear was under-pressurized fluid seeped into the middle ear from the surrounding tissues, plus there might be some swelling, so it takes a while for it all to re-absorb.

As long as it's trending better, and doesn't start to get painful, I'd give it a chance to heal on its own. But stay on top of it, because fluid filled ears are prone to develop infections, so if it gets painful you'll have to see a ENT for an antibiotic prescription.

BTW, I've found that Ibuprofin helps, but I'm not a Doc so I'm not suggesting it, only telling you it helped me. Good luck for a quick recovery. dF

 

[soamelt]

Thanks, ya DAN also suggested taking Ibuprofen or Tylenol as an anti- inflamitory.