How to Protect Your Ears While Diving

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, protecting your ears is essential for a safe and enjoyable underwater experience. Ear injuries are among the most common issues in scuba diving, yet they’re also some of the most preventable. With the right techniques and awareness, you can avoid discomfort, barotrauma, and long-term damage while diving in Bali or anywhere else in the world.

The pressure underwater changes rapidly as you descend and ascend. If you don’t equalize your ears properly, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of your eardrum can cause pain or even rupture the eardrum. That’s why mastering the art of equalization is the first and most important step in ear protection. Techniques like the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and gently blowing), Toynbee maneuver (swallowing while pinching your nose), or moving your jaw side to side can help open your Eustachian tubes and balance the pressure. The key is to start equalizing early—before you even feel discomfort—and continue doing so every meter or so during descent.

Descending too quickly or diving with congestion is another common cause of ear trouble. If you have a cold, allergies, or sinus blockage, your ability to equalize can be compromised, making it unsafe to dive. It’s always better to skip a dive than to risk injuring your ears. Divers should also avoid using decongestants unless recommended by a doctor, as their effects can wear off underwater, leading to problems on ascent.

Maintaining good ear hygiene is another way to prevent infections, especially if you’re doing multiple dives over several days. Water trapped in the ear canal can lead to swimmer’s ear or outer ear infections. To prevent this, dry your ears thoroughly after diving, and avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects. A few drops of a gentle vinegar-alcohol solution after diving (if recommended by a physician) can help prevent bacterial growth.

Earplugs designed for diving (vented earplugs) are sometimes used, but standard earplugs that block the canal can be dangerous as they trap air and prevent equalization. Always consult a dive professional or physician before using any ear protection device underwater.

Most importantly, listen to your body. If your ears hurt, stop your descent and try equalizing again. If it doesn’t work, abort the dive. Pain is a warning signal—not something to push through. Dive instructors at Bali Aqua always emphasize ear safety during training and are happy to guide you through equalization techniques until they become second nature.

Taking care of your ears isn’t just about avoiding injury—it’s about ensuring a long and comfortable diving journey. By being patient, prepared, and proactive, you can enjoy every moment beneath the surface without discomfort.