What causes Otitic barotrauma?

Ear barotrauma is a type of ear damage caused by pressure differences between the middle ear and the outer ear. Scuba diving and air travel are common causes of ear barotrauma. This condition occurs when there is also a problem with your eustachian tubes.

What is the pathogenesis of barotrauma?

Barotrauma of descent is caused by a lack of pressure equalization in closed spaces in contact with the diver, typically the ear, teeth, sinuses, and face mask. The resulting pressure difference between the tissues and the gas space causes injury.

What happens with barotrauma?

Barotrauma means injury to your body because of changes in barometric (air) or water pressure. One common type happens to your ear. A change in altitude may cause your ears to hurt. This can happen if you are flying in an airplane, driving in the mountains, or scuba diving.

What is barotrauma mechanical ventilation?

Barotrauma is a condition in which the alveoli (air sacs of the lungs) rupture with a subsequent entry of air into the surrounding extra alveolar space. Barotrauma is typically caused by lung air sacs rupturing or a direct injury.

Is barotrauma the same as decompression sickness?

Ear barotrauma is usually the result of difficulties in equalizing the middle ear pressure during descent, such as during a dive or airplane descent. Inner ear decompression sickness on the other hand is caused by the formation of inert gas bubbles within the microvessels and inner ear fluids during assent.

How is barotrauma treated?

Treatment

Chewing gum, sucking on a lozenge, swallowing, or yawning. Using the mouth helps to open up the eustachian tube.
Taking an over-the-counter (OTC) nasal decongestant, antihistamine, or both.
Stopping a diving descent at the first sign of ear discomfort to allow time for equalizing.