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Altered eustachian tube function in SCUBA divers with alternobaric vertigo
Naoharu Kitajima1, Akemi Sugita-Kitajima, Seiji Kitajima
1*Kitajima ENT Clinic, 1-15-15 Tagara Nerima-ku, Tokyo, Japan; †Department of Otolaryngology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; and ‡Department of Otolaryngology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan.
Summary
Eustachian tube dysfunction is linked to middle ear barotrauma in SCUBA divers. Evaluating and treating Eustachian tube function before diving can prevent alternobaric vertigo and other diving accidents.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Diving Medicine
- Aerospace Medicine
Background:
- Sport SCUBA diving is increasingly popular, leading to a rise in diving-related accidents.
- Alternobaric vertigo (AV) is a common condition affecting SCUBA divers, often related to middle ear barotrauma.
- Understanding the link between Eustachian tube function and AV is crucial for diver safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between Eustachian tube function and the incidence of alternobaric vertigo (AV) in sport SCUBA divers.
- To assess the progression of vestibular symptoms in divers following an accident.
- To identify factors influencing the occurrence and persistence of AV.
Main Methods:
- Compared 44 SCUBA divers with middle ear barotrauma to 20 healthy divers.
- Utilized sonotubometry and impedance testing to evaluate Eustachian tube function.
- Categorized divers with accidents into groups with and without AV for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- Divers with diving accidents showed significant differences in Eustachian tube function parameters (duration, amplitude, air content) compared to healthy divers.
- No significant differences in these Eustachian tube function parameters were found between divers with AV and those without AV.
- Vestibular symptoms resolved immediately after ascent in some divers, while others experienced persistent vertigo/dizziness.
Conclusions:
- Thorough evaluation of Eustachian tube function is recommended for all SCUBA divers.
- Treatment of any identified Eustachian tube dysfunction is advised prior to engaging in SCUBA diving.
- Addressing Eustachian tube issues can help prevent AV and other diving-related barotraumas.
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