Why your ears hurt when diving

At 10m underwater, the pressure is 2x atmospheric. The air space in your middle ear must adjust to match the surrounding water pressure, or the eardrum bulges inward. Equalization equalises that pressure by opening the Eustachian tubes connecting middle ear to throat.

The 5 equalization techniques

1. Valsalva (most common): pinch nose, gently blow against closed mouth. 2. Toynbee: pinch nose and swallow. 3. Frenzel: pinch nose, close throat, push tongue back like swallowing the letter 'K'. 4. Lowry: Valsalva + Toynbee combined. 5. BTV (hands-free): open Eustachian tubes voluntarily — takes practice.

When and how often

Start equalizing at the surface before descent. Then every 1-2 metres during the descent. Equalize before you feel pressure — once it hurts, it's harder to clear. On longer descents, equalize more frequently in the first 10m where pressure changes fastest.

What if you can't equalize

Ascend 1-2 metres, try again gently. Tilt your head left and right. Try a different technique. If still no luck, end the dive — there will be other days. Forcing equalization can rupture the round window of your inner ear, causing permanent damage.

Common mistakes

Blowing too hard with Valsalva. Waiting until pain to start equalizing. Diving with a cold or congestion (the Eustachian tubes are inflamed). Skipping equalization on ascent — yes, reverse blocks happen too. Wearing earplugs (never permitted while diving).