This article will explain how to equalize ears. Toynbee maneuver can be used to equalize your ears. This maneuver doesn't require the Valsalva maneuver which is the most common. Instead, the technique involves gently sucking in/out of the mouth. You will feel a difference after swallowing.
Swallowing equalizes eustachian tubes
The eustachian tube is a network of passageways connecting the middle ear to the nasopharynx or back of your nasal cavity. They are used to equalize the air pressure in your middle ear. Swallowing or chewing opens the tubes and allows air to enter into the middle of the ear. The tubes can block the middle ear, which can lead to hearing loss.
An obstructed eustachian canal can cause discomfort and pain in your ears. It may also lead to damage. This condition is usually temporary and can easily be treated by addressing the root cause. There are two options for treatment: decongestants and antibiotics. Some cases may require surgery to restore normal function.
Valsalva maneuver doesn't equalize ears
There are many ways you can equalize the volume of your ears. You pinch your nostrils and blow through your nose to equalize your ears. The excess throat pressure pushes air through Eustachian tube openings and pushes it through your nostrils. While the Valsalva maneuver isn't as effective as breathing through your mouth, it can be a helpful tool to have.
Another effective equalizing technique is to squeeze the nostrils and blow air into the sinuses. This is the simplest way to equalize ears. Although this works well, avoid blowing too hard on your nose. It can cause more damage to your ears. Blowing your nose too hard can damage your ears' tissue and cause your round windows to burst.
Toynbee maneuver safestows ears
The Toynbee maneuver is used to equalize the pressure in the middle of the ear. Because the middle ear has a dead air space, they need to be equalized to match their pressures. A person can achieve this by swallowing and gently pinching their nose. This can help reduce the pain that is caused by the middle ear pressure imbalance.
It's important to practice this maneuver in order to avoid locking the Eustachian tubes. Too much pressure can cause these tissues to close. This is why you need to be familiar with the Toynbee maneuver.
Improper equalization symptoms
For free divers, you need to use the right equalization techniques. Incorrect equalization techniques could lead to inner ear trauma. Particularly, Valsalva maneuvers may cause the round windows to burst. 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. Equalization should not be extended beyond what is necessary to prevent the Eustachian tubs from locking up. Instead, you can try climbing a few more feet. If equalization continues to be painful, lower your body and go back to the beginning. The Lowry technique, which combines both the Valsalva maneuver and the Toynbee maneuver, is recommended if pain persists. You can also pinch your nose and swallow to help equalize your ears.