How to Equalize Underwater Ear Pressure in Scuba Diving

When outside water pressure is greater than the inside of your sinus and ear cavities, a discomfort or "squeeze" occurs. Here's how to release it.

Things You'll Need

  • Scuba Gear
  • Scuba Tanks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Descend until your head is just below the surface.

    • 2

      Keep one hand on your buoyancy compensator (BC) inflate button.

    • 3

      Pinch your nose closed with the thumb and forefinger of the other hand.

    • 4

      Close your mouth.

    • 5

      Tighten your cheeks.

    • 6

      Blow softly until air pressure builds in your inner ear canals. You should hear gentle popping or crackling.

    • 7

      Descend slowly - about a foot per second.

    • 8

      Equalize intermittently, always before the pressure grows against your outer ear.