YPink
Guest
I have had TMJ since I was 12. I started diving last year and it is always hit and miss as to whether or not I can equalize. During my OW, I had to stop because of the immense pain I experienced. Amazingly enough, I was OK in Aruba and made it down to 74 feet with zero ear issues! I joked that it was the warm Carribean water and that my husband would have to take me there all the time instead of the cold quarry (Tennessee & Alabama).
Slow and steady definitely wins the race for me. I descend down the anchor line and take quite some time doing it, equalizing the whole way down.
I went to an ENT last summer, before Aruba. He was not a dive specialist (there are none here in TN) but said that my eustationary gland appeared swollen. Since our last dive in October, I have made it a habit to clear my ear every day. Even on land, my right ear does not "pop" like the other.
The light bulb went off today and I finally realized this may be due to my TMJ. Has anyone else had an experience with this? Any ideas on how to help? I love diving and want to find the best way to make my ears as happy as I am when I am underwater.
Thanks!
Steph
Slow and steady definitely wins the race for me. I descend down the anchor line and take quite some time doing it, equalizing the whole way down.
I went to an ENT last summer, before Aruba. He was not a dive specialist (there are none here in TN) but said that my eustationary gland appeared swollen. Since our last dive in October, I have made it a habit to clear my ear every day. Even on land, my right ear does not "pop" like the other.
The light bulb went off today and I finally realized this may be due to my TMJ. Has anyone else had an experience with this? Any ideas on how to help? I love diving and want to find the best way to make my ears as happy as I am when I am underwater.
Thanks!
Steph