Solutions for ear problems on multi dive trips?

Question

On a liveabord or multi diving trip. If you start getting ear problems. Do you stop and back off for the rest of the trip? Or do you have some things to get it better or tricks?

Answer 1

What kind of ear problems? Equalizing? Pain? Discharge? Do you have Sinus issues? If your sick don't dive. Dont risk permanent damage.

Comments

Equalizing problems

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You cant ascent a few feet and Equalize? If you cant equalize don't dive. Sorry this is a problem for you

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Ok. Thank you sir. Its not a problem every time. But I will keep your advice in mind.

Answer 2

Just got back from a week of diving all most sixteen hours underwater. The last four dives my ears were a problem. I just started to really taking my time getting down under water, and not moving up and down while swimming. Also putting in ear drops twice a day. Ever dive was all most a hour long. A great week and fun diving.

Comments

How about acending? Any issues there?

Answer 3

Try to equalize early and often as taught in certification. Good to keep checking and if you can't equalize or clear on the surface you won't underwater. I find some things that help are : Sudafed, swimmers ear drops / alcohol, a good sinus rinse , etc . Good luck next time.

Answer 4

One thing I found by accident that has worked very well for me after years of diving and having issues in my right ear mainly... I would tilt my head as i began to clear pointing my bad ear or problematic ear toward the surface and it has been a breeze every time. if it's both ears maybe try tilting back and forth...Worth the try hope it helps.

Answer 5

So I constantly have a concern with equaliztion problems. I’ve called Dan on a couple occasions and they gave me some great feedback on equalization. First one is to actually start equalizing before you dive. This helps to get your ears prepared. The first 33 feet create the most potential concerns so I take my time and equalize always early and often. Second, if I am diving in a downward position I find it more difficult to equalize, so I will upright myself, And take a moment to equalize. Third and of course there are different comments on this, is that I use Sudafed to help open up my eustachin tubes. Please make sure you check with your doctor before taking any drugs prior to diving... Dan has a good article on it... hope this helps!