Problems equalizing related to Dramamine?

[mislav]

I never had problems equalizing my ears until this dive. My problems with equalizing began early on the dive and lasted for the whole duration of it. In the end I was able to finish my dive.

I wondered what it might've been that caused this episode? I had taken dramamines and I remembered having read somewhere that they might cause problems with equalizing. I've looked, but I can not find the source of this anywhere, so what do you guys think?

Also, can you think of any other reason why I had so much problems on this particular dive yet never had any before?

 

[rockjock3]

I have personally never heard of dramamine giving anybody any trouble equalizing. I don't know exactly how it works on the body though so I don't know if it could.

As far as never having trouble equalizing until this dive. You could have very easily had a little bit of congestion. It is easy to have some nasal congestion and not even know it. Even minor congestion can cause you equalization problems.

 

[miketsp]

Not a qualified opinion, but all I can say is that on most of the dive boats I go on, a significant percentage of the divers are using Dramamine in one of the two common versions (with & without vitamin B) and I've never heard anyone comment that they had trouble equalising due to the medicine.
At least in my experience, trouble equalising, if not chronic, is related to head colds, allergies or dehydration.

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Mislav,

Both Dramamine Original (dimenhydrinate) and Dramamine Non-Drowsy (meclizine) are classed as antihistamines. As such, they would not be expected to impede equalization.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[mislav]

I wasn't sure about this. So, my troubles equilizing had nothing to do with the Dramamines I've taken. Thanks everyone.

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Mislav,

While it cannot be stated with 100% certainty that Dramamine (NOS) could have no involvement in equalization difficulties, it appears unlikely.

If one is going to take a Dramamine product, Dramamine Non-Drowsy (meclizine) may be preferred over Dramamine Original (dimenhydrinate). This is based on research showing that under conditions of increased atmospheric pressure dimenhydrinate adversely affects mental flexibility. When added to the known adverse effect of depth on memory, this may contribute to increased risks during diving.

The diver using any Dramamine product will want to follow directions for use to insure that the drug remains at therapeutic levels throughout the duration of a dive.

Helpful?

This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual and should not be construed as such.

Regards.

DocVikingo

 

[mislav]

Thanks again, Doc.

I'm not saying that Dramamines caused my troubles, but I remember having either been told that they might or reading it somewhere. Since I had no problems with equalizing before I've decided to ask this question.

Yes, you're answers where helpful, Doc. After reading everyone's responses, I am now more inclined to believe that Dramamines had nothing to do with this episode.

I'll have to wait and see if the problems occur the next time I dive. I hope they won't.

 

[scuba.ie]

I used to have a lot of trouble equalising. I had to drop to 6-8m, wait for about 2 mins and then I could continue. It never stopped me diving though.
Only this year, I tried a wheat free, dairy free and yeast free diet. To my amazement I can now drop like a stone to 30, 40m, whatever!
Give it a go if you are having trouble, it won't hurt!