Ear Problems: Changes in Air Pressure
Topic Overview
Ear injuries can occur when air pressure outside the ear increases or
decreases while the air pressure inside the ear remains the same. This might
happen when an airplane changes altitude or when a scuba diver descends or
ascends under water.
- A gradual increase in air pressure outside the
ear can cause a buildup of fluid in the space behind the eardrum (otitis media with effusion).
- A sudden, dramatic increase in air pressure outside the ear can
cause the
eardrum to rupture.
Both of these types of injuries are know as barotrauma.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerH. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Current as of:
May 4, 2017