Pressure Equalization

[BigKahuna13]

Lately my dives have been cut short due to unbearable pressure in my ears at around ten to fifteen feet. I have done every trick that I know of to equalize but none of them seem to be working. Any help would be great.

[scuba spearo]

try taking some sudafed the night before u go diving

[kjflyfish]

Remember that the first rule of equalization is "early and often". Don't wait until you have pressure/pain to try and equalize - often it's too late. Many divers prefer to equalize before submerging because it makes subsequent clearings much easier. If it's an issue with your sinuses, then there are lots of things to help, from nasal rinses to medication, but it's always best to stay away from things that relive symptoms rather than fix the problem.

Here is a great document about equalization. It describes advanced techniques for competitive freediving, but the parts about learning control of the soft palate and epiglottis are useful for any type of diving and are definitely worth reading.

[BigKahuna13]

Thanks for the help that article looks very helpful.

[Brick]

http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/MEbaro.html