Barotrauma Flashcards
1
Q
What is barotrauma
A
Rapid pressure change leads to inability of the ET to equalize negative air pressure leads to
1. Completely collapsed Eustachian tube
2
Q
What can cause barotrauma
A
Flying or any rapid altitudinal change, diving
1. Diving is more dangerous
*descend slowly to equilibrate pressure
3
Q
What are signs of barotrauma
A
- Auricular pain
- Fullness
- TM rupture or petechiae
- Emesis
- Vertigo
4
Q
What is the treatment of barotrauma
A
Auto-insufflation
1. Yawning
2. Swallowing
3. Topical or systemic decongestants
4. Antihistamines
5
Q
What provides immediate relief of barotrauma
A
Myringotomy
*small opening in the eardrum to drain fluid and relieve pressure from middle ear
