This article will explain how to equalize ears. Toynbee is a safe way to equalize ears. It doesn't use the Valsalva maneuver as it is most commonly used. Instead, the technique involves gently sucking in/out of the mouth. After swallowing, you'll hear a difference in your hearing.
Eustachian tubes are equalized by swiping
The eustachian canals are a set of passageways that connects your middle ear to the back of your nose, called 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. When the tubes are blocked, the middle ear cannot function properly, resulting in hearing loss.
An obstructed eustachian canal can cause discomfort and pain in your ears. It may also lead to damage. This condition is usually temporary and can easily be treated by addressing the root cause. 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 several methods that can equalize your ears. One is the Valsalva maneuver. You pinch your nostrils and blow through your nose to equalize your ears. The excess throat pressure pushes air through Eustachian tube openings and pushes it through your nostrils. The Valsalva maneuver can be useful, even though it's not as effective as breathing through the mouth.
Another effective equalizing technique is to squeeze the nostrils and blow air into the sinuses. This is the easiest method to equalize your 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 your nose too hard can damage your ears' tissue and cause your round windows to burst.
Toynbee maneuver equalizes ears safely
The Toynbee maneuver is used to equalize the pressure in the middle of the ear. The middle ear is a dead space and must be equalized to match the inner and outer ear pressures. In order to do this, a person should swallow and gently pinch their nose. This will help to prevent any pain caused by middle ear pressure imbalance.
This maneuver is essential to be able to perform it correctly in order to prevent the Eustachian tubes from locking up. These tissues can close if you apply too much pressure. It is important to know how to do the Toynbee maneuver correctly.
Symptoms of improper equalization
Free divers require the use of proper equalization techniques. Incorrect equalization techniques can result in inner ear barotrauma. Particularly, Valsalva maneuvers may cause the round windows to burst. This occurs when the eustachian tubes become blocked, causing the fluid to increase pressure and blow out the round window. This can be dangerous and should prompt medical attention.
If you feel pain during equalization, stop immediately. Don't go too far, as too much equalization may cause Eustachian tubes lock. Instead, consider climbing just a few steps. If equalization is still painful you can lower yourself and continue the process. The Lowry technique, which combines both the Valsalva maneuver and the Toynbee maneuver, is recommended if pain persists. To help equalize your ears, pinch your nose and swallow.