Barotrauma - Body During Flight and Dive

General
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A medical term ‘Barotrauma’ encompasses in itself a range of health/ medical conditions which occur due to sudden change or shift in air and/or water pressure and which may affect the body. In most of the cases, barotrauma conditions go away without treatment, not being much severe. While in some cases, immediate medical attention is required when a particular barotrauma condition may be life-threatening. Of all barotrauma conditions, ear barotrauma is the most common and other types may include effect on lungs, gastrointestinal tract or sinuses. It can happen in air flight or while diving in deep water.

Symptoms:

For ear barotrauma—stuffed-up feeling in ears, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, severe ear pain.

For gastrointestinal barotrauma—belly pain, cramps, flatulence (farting), belching.

For lung (pulmonary) barotrauma—bloody nose, bloody froth at mouth, chest pain, cough, dyspnea.

For sinus barotrauma—facial pain, bloody nose, headache, nasal congestion.

Prevention/ Treatment:

During altitude changes, symptoms of barotrauma can be prevented by yawning, swallowing or chewing gum. Its treatment may include nasal decongestants in case of ear and sinuses barotrauma, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy and IV fluids in case of pulmonary barotrauma.

Simple yet effective measures help in getting relief from barotrauma symptoms. However, if any severity shows up, then immediate contact to doctor is must. Have you ever experienced any symptoms of barotrauma during flight in air or diving deep in water? Share your experience and how did you overcome that situation?

Barotrauma
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References:

Link 1 Barotrauma

Link 2 Barotrauma

MBH/AB

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Barotrauma is more common than people realize, especially during flights or diving, and your summary captures it well. Most cases,like mild ear barotrauma,resolve with simple techniques such as yawning or swallowing, but severe lung or sinus symptoms should never be ignored. Awareness of early signs and preventive measures can make a big difference, especially for frequent travellers and divers.

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Yes, barotrauma is most commonly experienced as lightheadedness and nausea, while trekking at higher altitudes or mostly during flights. Increasing the intake of oxygen by slow and deep breathing during treks helps overcome the situation.

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Most of us would have experienced symptoms of ear barotrauma at some point. It can be quite uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. It’s always better to prevent these symptoms, so being aware of this condition is important. To relieve ear barotrauma, I usually perform the Valsalva manoeuvre.

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