If you have ever wondered how to equalize ears, you've come to the right place. The Toynbee maneuver is a safe method to equalize ears. It doesn’t involve the Valsalva maneuver that is the common approach. It involves gentle sucking in and exhaling from the mouth. When you swallow, your hearing will change.
Eustachian tubes equalize with swallowing
The eustachian tubs are a series passageways that connect the middle of the ear with the back of the nasal cavity, the nasopharynx. They open and close to equalize middle ear air pressure. Swallowing or chewing opens the tubes and allows air to enter into the middle of the ear. The tubes that are blocked can prevent the middle ear from functioning properly and cause hearing loss.
A blocked eustachiantube can cause discomfort in the ears and even damage. The condition is usually temporary and can be treated with treatment for the underlying cause such as sinus infection or nasal congestion. The treatment options include decongestants or antibiotics. However, some cases may need surgery to restore normal eustachian function.
Valsalva maneuver doesn't equalize ears
There are many ways you can equalize the volume of your ears. The maneuver works by pinching the nostrils and blowing through the nose. It creates excess throat pressure which pushes air through Eustachian tubules and opens them. While Valsalva isn’t as effective at breathing through your nose, it can still be helpful.
A good way to equalize your ears is to squeeze your nostrils and blow into the sinuses. This is the simplest way to equalize ears. It works well. However, it is important to not blow too hard through your nose. This can cause further injury to your ears. Blowing too hard could cause tissue damage in your ears, and may even lead to the rupture of your round windows.
Toynbee maneuver balances ears safely
Toynbee equalizes pressure in the middle. The pressure in the middle of the ear, which is a dead area, needs to be equalized. The best way to achieve this is to swallow and gently pinch your nose. This can help reduce the pain that is caused by the middle ear pressure imbalance.
To avoid locking your Eustachian tubes, it is important to practice the maneuver. These tissues can be damaged if too much pressure is applied. This is why it's important to learn how to perform the Toynbee maneuver carefully.
Improper equalization symptoms
It is important to use correct equalization techniques for free divers. Incorrect equalization can lead to inner ear barotrauma. For example, Valsalva maneuvers that are too forceful can lead to the round window bursting. This happens when the eustachian pipes become blocked. The fluid will increase pressure and cause the round glass to burst. This is dangerous and requires emergency medical attention.
If you feel pain during equalization, stop immediately. Don't go too far, as too much equalization may cause Eustachian tubes lock. Try climbing a few feet instead. If equalization remains painful, lower yourself again and do the same. If pain continues, use the Lowry technique, which combines the Valsalva maneuver with the Toynbee maneuver. To help equalize your ears, pinch your nose and swallow.