Barotrauma
Definition
Barotrauma is a pressure-related injury caused when internal air spaces in the body cannot equalize with the surrounding water pressure during a dive.
More on Barotrauma
Barotrauma occurs when a diver experiences unequal pressure across air-filled spaces, leading to tissue damage. It most commonly affects the ears, sinuses, lungs, and mask area. Ear barotrauma results from failure to equalize middle ear pressure during descent, while pulmonary barotrauma can occur during ascent if a diver holds their breath, potentially causing lung overexpansion or arterial gas embolism (AGE). Prevention includes proper equalization techniques, ascending slowly, and never holding your breath while breathing compressed gas. Recognizing early symptoms and avoiding dives when congested are essential to avoid complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most frequent forms include ear barotrauma, sinus squeeze, lung overexpansion (pulmonary barotrauma), and mask squeeze. These result from failure to equalize air spaces or improper ascent behavior.
Start equalizing before descent and do so frequently, using techniques like the Valsalva or Toynbee maneuver. Descend slowly and never dive with congestion or cold symptoms.
Pulmonary barotrauma occurs when a diver ascends while holding their breath, causing expanding air to rupture lung tissue. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to air embolism.
Symptoms include sharp pain (especially in ears or sinuses), dizziness, difficulty hearing, nosebleeds, chest pain, or shortness of breath depending on the affected area.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist after a dive, especially chest pain, breathing difficulty, or dizziness. Hyperbaric treatment may be needed in severe cases.