No Problems. I must have tubes like fire hoses. Colds or the Flu aren't a problem and even with them I can go to the bottom like a rock.
Gary D.
Gary D.
Kindly rate your ability to equalize your air spaces.
- Thread starter crispos
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Roughwaterjohn
Contributor
I had minimal problems clearing when I first started diving. I found within the last 6 months or so, that I'm having more problems clearing my right ear. The left has never been a problem. I start equalizing on the surface before dropping down, and the first 15'-20' are usually no problem. I find I have to stop several times though, rising back up in the water column each time to clear my right ear as I descend. This usually continues to about 80'. Once I'm done, and down, then I have no further problems continuing my descent to 100'-120', or on the ascent back to the surface, usually a gradual ascent along the bottom back to the shallows. I've never had to abort a dive due to equalization problems, but it does sometimes take time to work my way deeper.
John A.
John A.
H2Andy:
Ditto here Andy. It must have to do with growing up near the ocean, 'cause I also grew up free diving (in P.R). Even though I've suffered from sinus problems and allergies since childhood, it has not impede me from equalizing.
Rick
I too almost never have problems equalizing. The odd time i might feel a little discomfort, so I just stop for a bit and allow myself a little more time and all's well. That happens infrequently, though.
When I am diving a commercial helmet or FFM I rarely need to pinch. Having ambient pressure air in the nose lets me equalize very easily.
When I dive SCUBA with a regular mask and reg I do pinch and blow to equalize.
When I first started diving I had to work at it, but that was something like 26 years ago.
When I dive SCUBA with a regular mask and reg I do pinch and blow to equalize.
When I first started diving I had to work at it, but that was something like 26 years ago.
UWSojourner
Contributor
I voted for the automatic equalization.
But, I do have problems after dives with ear infection. I've been using an alchohol/glycerin mix and that has helped a lot.
But, I do have problems after dives with ear infection. I've been using an alchohol/glycerin mix and that has helped a lot.
Go to;
http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/index.html
and watch the streaming video;
"The Diver's Ear - Under Pressure"
Scuba diving and snorkeling can be fun ways to explore the depths - especially if you can clear your ears as the pressure changes. In this video lecture Dr. Edmond Kay discusses techniques for preventing middle ear barotrauma. Learn what to do to equalize pressure in your ears, teach others proper techniques and learn the safest way to prevent "ear squeeze". This talk was recorded live in September, 2000 and is now available for Internet viewing over the University's video portal .
This video is so good it is worth watching again and again.
http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/index.html
and watch the streaming video;
"The Diver's Ear - Under Pressure"
Scuba diving and snorkeling can be fun ways to explore the depths - especially if you can clear your ears as the pressure changes. In this video lecture Dr. Edmond Kay discusses techniques for preventing middle ear barotrauma. Learn what to do to equalize pressure in your ears, teach others proper techniques and learn the safest way to prevent "ear squeeze". This talk was recorded live in September, 2000 and is now available for Internet viewing over the University's video portal .
This video is so good it is worth watching again and again.
DoUDive2
Guest
I usually equalize just by swallowing. If that doesn't work, I'll try a yawn. Out of a hundred odd dives, I've only had to pinch a couple of times.
Of course, when I'm swimming or diving I'm fairly religious about cleaning my ears. Every 2 or 3 days, I will treat each ear for 10 or 20 minutes with hydrogen peroxide. I used to follow it with rubbing alcohol, but now I only use the alcohol if there are signs of infection.
Chris
Of course, when I'm swimming or diving I'm fairly religious about cleaning my ears. Every 2 or 3 days, I will treat each ear for 10 or 20 minutes with hydrogen peroxide. I used to follow it with rubbing alcohol, but now I only use the alcohol if there are signs of infection.
Chris
IslandHopper
Guest
Pinching seems to be a quicker fix for my sinuses. A little red beans and rice helps with the other air-spaces 
armyscuba
Contributor
Good Post..Honestly I think I have a more difficult time on land than in water now. I dive almost everyday, equalizing is automatic. On the other hand I think the Sea water just goes one ear and out the other now...Or maybe it's just water on the Brain..LOL
