Help for plugged ears?

[GregA2k6]

Hello all!

I have done the first 2 pool dives toward my cert. and it seems I have a real hard time hearing immediately after and a day or two later things are still slightly muted due to my ears being plugged up. (it really just feels like excessive wax buildup) My instructor warned against using a q-tip to clean your ears too close to when you will be diving again since they can often irritate the ear drum. I don't dive again for 6 days and I was wondering if anyone had any good methods for cleaning out wax buildup. I've read here about the vinegar/alchohol combo for 'swimmers ear'. Is that what I need? I don't think there is water in my ear, just wax buildup that has been pressed into my ear. (not pleasant ..I know!)

Thanks for any help!

GregA

 

[DeepSeaDan]

1. You are new to the whole "ear clearing gig", thus your ears ( eustation tubes ) may be sensitive to the increased movement of air in & out. This sensistivity may result in a generalized swelling, causing the "fullness" sensation. Remember to clear early & often, & NEVER force the issue; rise up a few feet & GENTLY attempt to clear again.

2. You may be experiencing water in the ear canal itself. Some folk's ear canals do not drain as readily as others. To keep water out of the ear canal, try to maintain your head in the neutral, straight-ahead position, & don't tip your head to either side ( thereby allowing water to enter the canal ). I know this may be difficult when training, but give it a try.

If your ears remain "full" feeling, be sure to see a physician, who may refer you to an E.N.T. specialist. I have trained many divers whose tubes give them trouble, especially new divers. It is always wise to rule out any kind of congenital problem early on.

Regards,
DSD

 

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