Aerotitis, also known as otic barotrauma, is a condition that occurs when there is a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the middle ear. This pressure disparity can cause discomfort and unpleasant symptoms during rapid pressure changes, such as those experienced when traveling by plane, diving, or ascending or descending at high altitudes. In this article from our hearing center in Malaga, Dominguez Hearing Aids, we will discover the symptoms, causes and treatment of this condition.
Symptoms of Aerotitis
The symptoms of aerotitis can vary in intensity and duration. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Atrial congestion: A feeling of pressure or blockage in the ear, similar to having your ears plugged.
- Ear pain: Sharp discomfort or pain in the affected ear, which can range from mild to severe.
- Dizziness or vertigo: A feeling of unsteadiness or imbalance, which may be mild or cause severe dizziness.
- Temporary hearing loss: Difficulty hearing clearly due to ear obstruction, which is usually temporary.
- Valsalva Maneuver: A technique used to equalize middle ear pressure, consisting of exhaling with the mouth and nose closed to open the Eustachian tubes and allow air to flow into the middle ear.
- Other symptoms: They may include a feeling of ear fullness, ringing in the ear, a feeling of fluid in the ear, or dizziness.
Causes of Aerotitis
This pressure change can be caused by a variety of situations, including:
- Changes in altitude: Rapid ascents and descents in an airplane, especially during takeoff and landing, can cause sudden changes in air pressure that affect the middle ear.
- Diving: When descending at depth during diving, the water pressure increases and can compress the middle ear, causing it if the pressure is not equalized properly.
- Rapid ascents: Climbing to high altitudes in elevators, escalators, mountains, or even driving on mountain roads can cause sudden changes in pressure.
- Practice of high-altitude sports: The practice of sports such as skydiving, mountaineering or paragliding, which involve rapid changes in altitude, can also trigger it
- Nasal problems: Nasal congestion due to allergies, colds, or sinusitis can make it difficult and increase proper ventilation of the middle ear.
- Eustachian Anomalies: Abnormalities in the Eustachian tubes, which are responsible for equalizing middle ear pressure, may predispose a person to develop it more easily.
- Ear infections: This is the most common cause, previous infections or inflammations in the middle ear can affect the ability to equalize pressure and increase your susceptibility.
It’s important to note that aerotitis may be more common in people with a history of ear or sinus problems, as well as those who frequently travel by plane or engage in activities that involve rapid changes in pressure.
Treatment of Aerotitis
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and restoring proper pressure in the middle ear. Some treatment and prevention options include:
- Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalize the pressure in the middle ear, which can relieve symptoms.
- Drink water: Staying well hydrated can help prevent dehydration and facilitate pressure equalization.
- Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help open the Eustachian tubes and promote pressure equalization.
- Opening and closing the jaw: Gentle movements of opening and closing the jaw can help open the Eustachian tubes and allow air to flow into the middle ear.
- Rest: In more severe cases, rest may be required and avoid further exposure to pressure changes.
In severe cases of aerotitis, medical intervention may be required to relieve symptoms and prevent complications such as ear infections or permanent damage to the middle ear. It is important to consult a doctor and make an appointment, if symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you experience severe pain, persistent hearing loss, or severe dizziness.
