At diving medicine conferences, I learned that the half-alcohol and half vinegar combination is used by Navy and by Olympic swimmers. Swimmer's ear remedies sold over the counter are usually this mix.
It can be (and was recommended at the conference) simple rubbing alcohol. Ethanol may be OK also, but the greatest experience in sports medicine is with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl)
The equalizing thing is largely a separate problem from swimmer's ear.
Equalizing occurs on the other side of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum.
The advice above is excellent. Equalize soon and often. If there is pain, ascend to equalize! by the time pain is present, there is enough pressure difference to block the eustachian tube from opening easily, and it won't correct until you ascend.
The only other thing that hasn't been addressed above is the role of colds and allergies in people with equalization problems.. Anything that causes any swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose (stuffy nose) will interfere with ease of equalization, because the eustachian tube's narrowest point is at the back of the nose (the nasopharynx)
People with recurrent sinus problems, mild allergies, etc often have an awful time equalizing. They can be helped with either decongestants like sudafed or the newer, prescription cortisone nasal sprays.
I've had exceptional success getting problem equalizers to clear easier using Flonase or Nasonex or Nasacort AQ sprays routinely. I'd discuss it with your doc and consider use of one or both if equalizing is a severe or recurring problem.
It's certainly better than giving up diving!!
John
