Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Head and Neck Surgery
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Last update: 10/5/14
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Scuba
diving
refers
to
the
form
of
underwater
diving
in
which
a
diver
uses
a
Self-Contained
Underwater
Breathing
Apparatus
(S.C.U.B.A.)
to
breathe
underwater.
This
enables
him/her
to
stay
underwater
for
a
longer
period
of
time
and
at
a
deeper
level
without
the
need to constantly surface for air.
While
it
can
bring
loads
of
fun,
it
can
also
be
a
test
of
the
mental
and
physical
fitness
especially
where
the
cardiovascular,
ENT
systems
are
concerned.
One
has
to
be
physically
fit
and
has
normal
or
almost-normal
physiological
CVS
and
ENT
systems
to
enjoy
this
sport
fully
and
also to avoid medical complications.
The
cavities
in
head
&
neck,
namely
the
air-containing
paranasal
sinuses
or
the
middle
ear
(the
space
behind
the
eardrum)
can
be
subjected
to
frequent
dynamic
atmospheric
pressure
changes.
Sinus
squeeze
or
the
middle
ear
squeeze
phenomenon
can
occur
as
a
result
of
poor
conscious
equalization
efforts
on
the
diver’s
part
or
as
a
result
of
poorly-optimised
medical
conditions
involving
the
ENT
systems.
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The normal ear cross section. Notice the Eustachian tube
which links the ear to the nose.
The normal ear drum as seen on a microscope or
endoscope
Barotrauma effects on the ear:
•
Hemotympanum
•
Otitis media
•
Middle ear effusion
•
Perforation of the ear drum
•
Vertigo from inner ear pathology caloric stimulation, rupture of round window membrane
Other ear conditions that can affect your diving pleasure includes:
•
Otitis externa (outer ear canal infection)
•
Exostosis
•
Expansion of the impacted ear wax causing pain
•
Uncontrolled nose allergy (allergic rhinitis)
The external ear
canal (EAC)
Ear drum (normal)
Eustachian
Tube
© Vincent Tan ENT
This patient education is provided in good faith to help patients and their families learn more about their medical conditions, the options available to them and the
possible consequences of their decisions. This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis, or treatment of any specific individual. Please consult with
your ENT doctor regarding your particular circumstances.
More coming soon.
Please check back soon for more updates...
ACUTE BAROTRAUMA TO EAR !
Notice the air fluid level
denoting fluid in the
compartment behind
the ear drum
Notice the fluid has
slightly reddish tinge
denoting blood stain in
acute barotrauma