What causes Otitic barotrauma?

Key points about ear barotrauma Ear barotrauma is a type of ear damage caused by pressure differences between the middle ear and the outer ear. Scuba diving and air travel are common causes of ear barotrauma. This condition occurs when there is also a problem with your eustachian tubes.

What is Baro trauma?

Barotrauma means injury to your body because of changes in barometric (air) or water pressure. One common type happens to your ear. A change in altitude may cause your ears to hurt. This can happen if you are flying in an airplane, driving in the mountains, or scuba diving.

How long does it take for middle ear barotrauma to heal?

If barotrauma is caused by allergies or respiratory infections, it will often be resolved when the underlying cause has been resolved. Mild to moderate cases take an average of up to two weeks for a full recovery. Severe cases can take six to 12 months for a full recovery after surgery.

What is the most common type of barotrauma?

Barotrauma occurs most commonly while scuba diving, but also may occur during flying, mountain climbing, or skiing. During scuba diving, barotrauma may be caused by descending or ascending too rapidly.

When does otic barotrauma cause severe ear pain?

Otic barotrauma is ear pain or damage to the tympanic membrane caused by rapid changes in pressure. To maintain equal pressure on both sides of the tympanic membrane (TM), gas must move freely between the nasopharynx and middle ear. When an upper respiratory infection, allergy,…

Can a change in altitude cause ear barotrauma?

The change in altitude when taking off or landing in an airplane can also cause ear barotrauma. The rapid ascent and descent of the plane combined with the pressurized cabins can cause an imbalance in pressure between the middle ear and outer ear.

Why do I get ear barotrauma while scuba diving?

Altitude changes that occur when going quickly up or down a mountain can have similar effects. It is also common for people to experience ear barotrauma while scuba diving, as changes in water pressure affect the tympanic cavity in the ear. When diving, it is crucial to descend slowly to prevent rapid changes in pressure causing injury to the ear.

When to apply vasoconstrictor for otic barotrauma?

Prevention of Otic Barotrauma A person with nasal congestion due to an upper respiratory infection or allergies should avoid flying and diving. When these activities are unavoidable, a topical nasal vasoconstrictor (eg, phenylephrine 0.25 to 1.0%) is applied 30 to 60 minutes before descent or ascent. NOTE: This is the Professional Version.