What Researchers Did
This study investigated different types of ear damage that can occur during various diving activities.
What They Found
Researchers found that divers are exposed to significant noise, with 120 dB(A) measured during hyperbaric chamber ventilation. They identified that ear canal and middle ear squeeze can cause temporary conductive hearing loss, while inner ear barotrauma often leads to temporary vertigo and lasting high-tone sensorineural hearing loss. The authors also reported two cases of perilymph fistula due to diving, with one patient's hearing returning to normal after surgical repair.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian divers, including those in professional or recreational settings, should be aware of the various ear injuries that can occur from pressure changes, noise exposure, and decompression issues. Recognizing symptoms like hearing loss or vertigo early is crucial for timely medical assessment and potential treatment, which may include surgical repair for conditions like perilymph fistula.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism, both of which are Health Canada-recognized indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
This study is based on observations and mechanisms described in 1979, and the specific case reports mentioned are limited in number.