Can't Equalize

Archer · 11-11-2010, 10:11 AM

With all the technology we're always developing, I'm wondering if anyone knows if a solution to my problem exists yet. I can't equalize. Try as I might, it just doesn't happen. My ears just hurt, hurt, hurt, and I gave up on SCUBA long ago. It's been a while, though. Could there be new devices/techniques to help me now?

dinosaur · 11-11-2010, 08:08 PM

Bummer. Wish I could help but I haven't got a clue. My brother-in-law is a high tech doctor ex-head at Walter Reed. I'll check with him and see if he knows anything.

scubaghost · 03-12-2011, 01:31 PM

I always take either sudafed or benadryl before a dive but check with your doctor. If you have any heart issues, some over the counter drugs can increase heart rate and that would not be good if you go deep.

Soldat · 08-14-2011, 06:25 PM

I have the same problem and couldn't go below 30'. On a plane back from Germany i couldn't equalize and ended up going to the ER after we landed. Sucks doesn't it?

wvbreamfisherman · 08-16-2011, 07:09 AM

Might try a Scop patch before you dive. Sudafed or other vasoconstrictor is another idea. You might consider a going over by a good ENT guy. Might just be that you have very small Eustacian tubes, but it might be that you have a chronic problem that can be taken care of, too.

ejdixon · 11-14-2011, 05:18 AM

A friend of mine had a similar problem (having really painful earaches when diving). He had himself checked with an EENT. Turns out to be an ear infection because of the salt water itself. Not sure, but it might be the same case with you perhaps.