Scuba diving injuries range from benign to life threatening and can occur during descent, at depth or during ascent.
Scuba diving injuries range from benign to life threatening and can occur during descent, at depth or during ascent. Sports medicine physicians, athletes and other members of the dive team should be prepared to rapidly identify and treat divers with these injuries. In some cases, they are self limited and in others, require significant interventions such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
In this post, we review some of the more well described diving-related pathology. Please note that there are some conditions not covered in this post. Barotrauma of Descent Illustration of the eustachian tube which helps maintain equal air pressure on both sides of the tympanic membrane.
When there is a mismatch, otic barotrauma can occur. Otic Barotrauma Otic barotrauma, sometimes termed ear squeeze, can affect the external, middle or inner ear and is seen during descent. The middle ear is most commonly affected. It occurs when the middle ear pressure is not equalized with the ambient pressure which is why divers are taught to equalize their ears at surface and throughout the dive.
Divers generally complain of ear pain, fullness, vertigo and hearing loss. On exam, they may have edema, hemorrhage or a ruptured tympanic membrane. External and middle ear disease can typically be treated with ear drops, decongestants and vasoconstrictors.
If a TM rupture is present, consider antibiotics. Patients with inner ear barotrauma may need advanced imaging and should be referred to an ENT. Illustration of the paranasal sinuses where patients may develop pain. Read More @ Wiki Sports Medicine: https://wikism.org/Otic_Barotrauma Sinus Barotrauma In sinus barotrauma, a decrease in gaseous volume within the nasal cavity and sinuses themselves creates a decompression or squeeze effect.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to scuba diving injuries, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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