Barotrauma

When To Call A Professional

If you experience dizziness that includes a feeling of spinning or falling (“vertigo”) and your symptoms occur right after flying or diving, you need an immediate evaluation because there is a small chance you may need emergency ear surgery. If you have severe pain, bleeding or drainage of fluid from your ears, see a doctor within several days because you may have a ruptured eardrum. If you have mild ear pain or hearing difficulty that continues after flying or diving, you should see a doctor for help if your symptoms are slow to resolve.

Prognosis

Most cases of barotrauma get better quickly without complications.

Additional Info

American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery One Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314-3357 Phone: (703) 836-4444 http://www.entnet.org/