Otic barotrauma Flashcards
1
Q
Features
A
Barotrauma affects scuba divers and aircraft travellers.
The symptoms include:
- temporary or persisting pain
- deafness
- vertigo
- tinnitus and
- perhaps discharge
2
Q
Examination
A
Inspection of the TM may reveal (in order of seriousness):
- retraction
- erythema
- haemorrhage (due to extravasation of blood into the layers of the TM)
- fluid or blood in the middle ear
- perforation
Perform conductive hearing loss tests with tuning fork.
3
Q
Treatment
A
Most cases are mild and resolve spontaneously in a few days,
- so treat with analgesics and reassurance.
Menthol inhalations are soothing and effective.
Refer if any persistent problems.
4
Q
Ear exostoses (‘surfer’s ear’)
A
These bony overgrowths are initiated by water retention in the ear.
5
Q
Prevention
A
Use plugs to waterproof ear
Dry thoroughly with hair dryer after swimming
6
Q
A
