•  
  •  

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

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised February 12, 2010

Last Revised: February 12, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine & William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.