# What is barotrauma? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-radh-aldaght-aljawwi-barotrauma Language: en Category: ent Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.748Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.748Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-howa-radh-aldaght-aljawwi-barotrauma Barotrauma is a physical injury that occurs due to changes in atmospheric or water pressure surrounding the body [\[1\]](). The ear is one of the most commonly affected parts of the body by this type of injury [\[1\]](). It occurs when there is a pressure difference between the inside of the middle ear and the outside pressure, leading to a feeling of pressure, blockage, or pain in the ears [\[2\]](). ## How does pressure change affect the ear? The middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum, connects to the back of the nose and upper throat via the Eustachian tube [\[2\]](). This tube works to equalize pressure on both sides of the eardrum by allowing air to flow in and out of the middle ear [\[2\]](). When altitudes change rapidly, such as during air travel, driving in mountains, or diving, the external atmospheric pressure changes, creating a pressure difference on either side of the eardrum [\[1\]](). If the Eustachian tube cannot effectively equalize this pressure, barotrauma may occur. ## Common causes of ear barotrauma Ear barotrauma can occur in several situations involving rapid pressure changes [\[1\]](): - **Flying:** Especially during takeoff and landing, where altitudes change rapidly. - **Diving:** Due to significant changes in water pressure with depth. - **Driving in high altitudes:** When ascending or descending mountains. - **Other activities:** Such as using hyperbaric chambers or being near explosions. ## Common symptoms of barotrauma Symptoms of ear barotrauma range from mild to severe and include [\[1\]](): - Ear pain. - A feeling of blockage or fullness in the ears. - Hearing loss. - Dizziness. In more severe cases, barotrauma may lead to a ruptured eardrum or other injuries inside the ear [\[2\]](). ## Tips for prevention and initial treatment To help relieve pressure and prevent barotrauma, some simple measures can be tried [\[1\]](): - **Chewing and yawning:** Continuous chewing of gum or frequent yawning helps open the Eustachian tube and equalize pressure [\[2\]](). - **Using decongestants:** Over-the-counter decongestants, such as nasal sprays, may help open the Eustachian tube, especially if you suffer from nasal congestion or allergies [\[1\]](). It is preferred to take them about an hour before the flight [\[2\]](). - **Gentle Valsalva maneuver:** You can try to breathe in and then exhale gently while closing the nose and mouth [\[2\]](). Extreme caution must be exercised when doing this to avoid exhaling with excessive force, as it can push bacteria into the ear canals or even cause a perforation of the eardrum [\[2\]](). If symptoms persist or worsen, or if you are experiencing severe pain, it may be necessary to consult a doctor to evaluate the condition and determine the appropriate treatment. You can read more about protecting ears during flying and diving at [Barotrauma: Protecting Your Ears During Flying and Diving (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Barotrauma]() - [Ear - blocked at high altitudes]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-radh-aldaght-aljawwi-barotrauma#answer