This article will explain how to equalize ears. Toynbee maneuver can be used to equalize your ears. It does not involve the Valsalva maneuver, which is the usual approach. Instead, it involves gently sucking in and out of the mouth. You'll notice a difference in your hearing after swallowing.
Eustachian tubes equalize by swallowing
The eustachian tubs are a series passageways that connect the middle of the ear with the back of the nasal cavity, the nasopharynx. They open and close to equalize middle ear air pressure. Swallowing or chewing opens the tubes and allows air to enter into the middle of the ear. The tubes that are blocked can prevent the middle ear from functioning properly and cause hearing loss.
A blocked eustachian tubes can cause discomfort and pain in the ears. In some cases, it may even lead to ear damage. This condition is usually temporary and can easily be treated by addressing the root cause. Treatment options include antibiotics and decongestants. However, some cases may need surgery to restore normal eustachian function.
Valsalva maneuver doesn't equalize ears
There are many ways to equalize your ears. One of these is the Valsalva maneuver. The maneuver works by pinching your nostrils and blowing through your nose, creating excess throat pressure that pushes air through your Eustachian tubes and opens them. Although the Valsalva maneuver may not be as efficient as breathing through your mouth directly, it is still a useful tool.
Another way to equalize the airflow is to squeeze the nostrils, and then blow the air into your sinuses. This is the simplest way to equalize ears. This works well but you should not blow your nose so hard that it causes more damage to your ears. Blowing your nose too hard can damage your ears' tissue and cause your round windows to burst.
Toynbee maneuver equalizes ears safely
Toynbee equalizes pressure in the middle. Because the middle space is a dead zone, it must be equalized in order to match the pressures of the outer and inner ears. A person can achieve this by swallowing and gently pinching their nose. This can prevent pain from resulting from middle ear pressure imbalance.
This maneuver is essential to be able to perform it correctly in order to prevent the Eustachian tubes from locking up. These tissues can be damaged if too much pressure is applied. You should learn the Toynbee maneuver well.
Incorrect Equalization: Signs
Proper equalization techniques are essential for free divers. Incorrect equalization techniques may lead to inner-ear barotrauma. The round window can burst if you use forceful Valsalva maneuvers. This happens when the eustachian tube becomes blocked. The fluid then increases pressure, which causes the round window to burst. This condition can be very dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
If you feel pain during equalization, stop immediately. You should not go too far as too much equalization could cause the Eustachian tubes to become locked. Instead, climb a few feet. If equalization still feels painful, lower your head and try again. If the pain continues, you can use the Lowry technique. This combines the Valsalva maneuver as well as the Toynbee method. You can also pinch the nose and swallow to equalize your ears.