Equalizing while ascending

[JMaBC]

Question: if you're having trouble equalizing on ascent is it ok to equalize using Valsalva or swallowing or other equalization methods? or should u just go up slower?

 

[dumpsterDiver]

It is probably best to stop ascent, go down a few feet until you feel like the ears are equalized and then very GENTLY use the valsalva sp? method to open the eustacean tubes up and then begin a very slow ascent. Wiggling the jaw side to side on ascent and other tricks can help too.

 

[JMaBC]

thx, was told by one DM that shouldn't use Valsalva on ascent, but sounds like using equalization methods like swallowing, jaw side to side or Valsalva are commonly used on ascent and descent

 

[JMaBC]

Just read that equalizing on the way up is ok, but shouldnt be using Valsalva or swallowing method on the way up....apparently a quote from Public safety diving By Walt Hendrick, Andrea Zaferes, Craig Nelson

 

[knotical]

The hesitancy to use the Valsalva on ascent is probably because the Valsalva increases the pressure in the middle ear – which is the opposite of what equalization on ascent should ultimately accomplish. I've heard some folks say they use a reverse Valsalva – holding their nose and inhaling. Passive methods are good for most equalization issues – swallowing, jaw wiggle or thrust, a polite yawn, etc.

 

[vladimir]

If you haven't already seen it, watch this video entitled The Diver's Ear--Under Pressure.

 

[Crowley]

Equalization on ascent should happen without the need to perform any maneuvre at all... expanding air in the ears and sinuses should just escape back into your throat and be exhaled, or bubble into your mask.

Performing a valsalva maneuvre will force pressure into space already filled with expanding air, which can never be good, not to mention the fact that performing a valsalva means that by definition, you are closing your airway, which could be dangerous on ascent.

If you feel your ears popping on the way up, this is quite normal, it happens to me underwater and also very easily on aeroplanes, and then yes, a reverse - if you like - valsalva, when you're back on the boat, will un-pop them.

Hope that helps,

C.

 

[Interceptor121]

According to DAN using equalisation technique which involve blowing air on ascent can further flex the ear drum out and actually create problems to your ears
There should not be any need of doing anything however if you ascent too quickly and create a strong pressure unbalance a reverse valsala can help
Bottom line: ascent slowly and you will never encounter problems unless those come from decongenstants wearing out...

 

[fairybasslet]

I once had a bunch of bubbles coming out of my ear on ascent. What was that about? It was the strangest feeling.

 

[Meredith78]

I once had a bunch of bubbles coming out of my ear on ascent. What was that about? It was the strangest feeling.

My dive instructor said that happened to a girl in his class once, and it turned out she had a perforated eardrum. From what I remember of the story though, it wasn't just a one-time occurrence.