Ear Problems During/After Diving

[NoseDive]

I didn't mean to say that I usually feel discomfort when ascending, just that I know what ascending too fast feels like and the time I experienced vertigo didn't feel anymore traumatic than usual. I have to admit buoyancy control is an area I definitely need work on. I did well at getting neutral at depth, but ascending and descending are hard to judge.

Anyway I think my concerns are pretty well addressed. I'm gonna continue taking the decongestants and ibuprofen and if it gets worse or doesn't clear up within a week I'll get it looked at. Thanks guys, I hope to spend more time on this board and A LOT more time in the water in the future.

 

[SalpaSub Malta]

I had a very similar problem which persisted for some weeks, luckily without damaging ear drum. I reccomend you vist you ENT specialist just to be sure.

After my incident I started using ear plugs (vented!) and I really think they are a great find for persons who dive very frequently. The plugs will reduce the amount of water washing you ear canal preventing excessive wax removal. Nonetheless it is important to take care of your ear plugs and keep them always very clean!

 

[knowone]

After my incident I started using ear plugs (vented!) and I really think they are a great find for persons who dive very frequently. The plugs will reduce the amount of water washing you ear canal preventing excessive wax removal. Nonetheless it is important to take care of your ear plugs and keep them always very clean!

In forty plus years I cannot remember seeing a diver wear earplugs.

 

[Herk_Man]

In forty plus years I cannot remember seeing a diver wear earplugs.

These are special earplugs called ProPlugs that are made for divers. Those that have used them, swear by them. Especially those who have had troubles similar to those the OP experienced.

 

[NoseDive]

I'm definitely going to look into those. So they keep water out of the ear as much as possible, while still allowing you to equalize? It seems like they would, in some cases, make equalizing more difficult.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

I'm definitely going to look into those. So they keep water out of the ear as much as possible, while still allowing you to equalize? It seems like they would, in some cases, make equalizing more difficult.

I have to agree with your assessment. I can see how Doc's ProPlugs might be useful for preventing swimmer's ear (infection of the outer ear) or in the case that someone wanted to dive with a torn/damaged eardrum (not a good idea IMO). For preventing middle ear barotrauma, I honestly don't see how the ProPlugs could help. In fact, if the small hole, through which equalization occurs, gets plugged for some reason (earwax?), then the product is going to hinder ear equalization.

I have not used ProPlugs, but I have looked into how they are supposed to work.

 

[SalpaSub Malta]

Goto SalpaSub Underwater Technologies and follow the 'special offers' link. From there choose 'ear protection for divers'.

I have been using them and they even help you to equalize by keeping the ear canal warmer (water ingress will cool the ear thus reducing the normal or 'preferred' temperature).

p.s there are always thing you will learn, so keep your eyes open like I do

 

[NoseDive]

Either way, I'll be looking into them. It is probably worth noting that the water was fairly cold (50-60 degrees) so temperature may be a factor here.

Thanks so much for all the responses guys, this seems like a very helpful, friendly forum unlike many I've used for other hobbies, areas of interest.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

These are special earplugs called ProPlugs that are made for divers. Those that have used them, swear by them. Especially those who have had troubles similar to those the OP experienced.

The OP had trouble with middle ear barotrauma. I do not see how ProPlugs can help prevent barotitis media.

Either way, I'll be looking into them. It is probably worth noting that the water was fairly cold (50-60 degrees) so temperature may be a factor here.

I regularly dive in water that temperature. The bottom temp for my last local dive was 50°F. I have never used Doc's ProPlugs.

Get an properly-sized, good quality hood that's appropriate for your local diving conditions -- a 7mm or thicker hood sounds right. The hood should not interfere with equalization at all.

I'd recommend saving your money for other necessary scuba dive purchases.

 

[NoseDive]

I had a hood on, but it was a rental so I know nothing about it. Its gonna be at least 6 months before I spend ANY money on scuba, other than going, so don't worry I'll have plenty of time to research before I drop the cash.