My ears are hissing--What is going on?

[Joe-Diver]

I don't think I would use it if a serious injury was suspected....just as a routine preventative after each dive in a healthy ear. It can also help clear up a fungus if you have one...use it several times a day followed by a hair dryer to dry out the ear.

 

[SparticleBrane]

I know that was in jest, but isn't alcohol ototoxic? (I know I have read very firm instructions not to use it should you even suspect a perforated eardrum.)

It's been used before.

I wasn't around for it, but I have heard it from people I trust (although I'm sure I'm butchering this story) -- apparently the diver (victim?) was having ear issues in the pool and like an idiot he decided to keep going. He said that suddenly there was no pain. He didn't have any other signs of perforated eardrum though so to check they poured some ear stuff inside...
Apparently he immediately started yelling in pain and almost punched the guy who administered it, then ran around and was beating on a wall or something until he started feeling better. :11:

Then he went to student health, where the nurse there proceeded to tell him that his eardrum wasn't perforated.
Right.

 

[MichaelBaranows]

When my dad perforated eardrum last summer we checked in with alcohol and it was funny. I don't think I have ever seen him in so much pain. After about 5 minutes his eyes finally stopped water. But by his DR appointment 3 days later it had already healed.

 

[Daner]

my ears sqeak/whistle when I equalize quite often. For me its just air going through the eustation tubes. The more often I dive the less it happens.

 

[skybird]

I love my ENT he is a diver himself. Don't take chances with your ears.

 

[UnderSeaBumbleBee]

Just got home from the Doc. The ear that was infected doesn't have any sign of infection now, but still looks a little blood shot and has a little fluid in it. The Doc said he doesn't see any problem with diving and doesn't see a perf in either ear.

He recommended going slower than normal on the descent and paying more attention than I already do to my ears. I also plan to cut the dive shorter and keep a larger supply of reserve gas in case of reverse block.

We will see how it goes. If I am having any problems, my dive buddy and I have already agreed to call the dive together, stay together and exit the water together as we always do.

 

[tedj101]

The DAN medical line is closed until tomorrow morning except for emergencies. I will try again in the morning.

Just wondering if anyone had ever had the above happen to them. I don't feel any pain and they actually equalize and pop back after I pressurized them better than they have in the past. I am not taking any other meds other than my normal allergy stuff and the antibiotics.

It could be tinnitus... (I've had it for 20 years or so). If it is, it won't cause any problems underwater. You may want to have a checkup with an ear-nose-throat specialist, though...

Best,
TED

 

[tonka97]

Just got home from the Doc. The ear that was infected doesn't have any sign of infection now, but still looks a little blood shot and has a little fluid in it. The Doc said he doesn't see any problem with diving and doesn't see a perf in either ear.

He recommended going slower than normal on the descent and paying more attention than I already do to my ears. I also plan to cut the dive shorter and keep a larger supply of reserve gas in case of reverse block.

We will see how it goes. If I am having any problems, my dive buddy and I have already agreed to call the dive together, stay together and exit the water together as we always do.

Makes sense.

Methinks you need 2 weeks in Bonaire; maybe spend the first day at Slagbaai National Park http://www.geographia.com/bonaire/bonwas01.htm I went with a horrible case of sinusitis in July, and took an early surface interval at the park....CURED! Totally dry and allergen free....just dry heat, iguana, lizards, and majestic views of the ocean!

I had similar symptoms as yours; inflammation of eustachian tube, and reverse squeeze type sounds and sensations.

I agree that you should be very careful with the Valsalva, and avoid excessive pressures.

Glad you are feeling better Leah!

 

[KCIREVAM]

At times I have the same problem, my doc. perscribed Genasal B 4 I go diving. There is also a procedure now I'm quoting "It's called Ear Candling. Hollow ear candles R used 2 treat the inner ear with soothing warm air. This ia an ancient practice and very effective, in removing ear wax,and relieves ear, sinus and throat pressure." Just FYI

 

[DeNomad]

You know, if you have ear problems you might want to watch this video. A ENT doctor/diver explains equalization techniques in detail. Might help out anyone with ear troubles.

http://www.uwtv.org/programs/displayevent.aspx?rID=2272