If you’ve ever felt that sharp pressure in your ears while descending underwater, you’re not alone. Ear discomfort — or “ear squeeze” — is one of the most common issues new divers face. It’s caused by pressure differences between the air inside your ear and the water outside.

The good news? With the right technique and a little practice, you can prevent ear pain completely. In this guide, we’ll explain how equalisation works, simple ways to master it, and what to do if your ears just won’t clear.

Whether you’re on your first dive or working toward your certification, these equalisation tips will help you stay comfortable, safe, and focused on the fun part — exploring underwater.

Why Equalisation Matters

As you descend, the pressure around you increases — roughly one additional atmosphere for every 10 metres (33 feet). Your middle ear, which is filled with air, doesn’t automatically adjust to this external pressure. If you don’t equalise, your eardrums get pushed inward, causing pain and potentially leading to injury (known as barotrauma).

Equalisation restores the pressure balance by allowing air into your middle ear through the Eustachian tubes — small passages connecting your nose and ears. Done correctly, it keeps your ears comfortable and protects them from damage.

Understanding the Science of Ear Pressure

Think of your ears as small air pockets that need to “catch up” as you descend.

• At the surface: Pressure is equal inside and outside the ear.

• As you go deeper: Water pressure increases, compressing the air in your middle ear.

• Equalising: You introduce extra air through your nose and throat, restoring balance.

This is why divers are taught to “equalise early and often” — it’s much easier to stay ahead of the pressure than to fix it once it builds up.

When and How to Equalise

You should begin equalising before you feel discomfort — ideally on the surface and every metre or two during descent. Waiting until it hurts is too late.

Here are the most effective methods:

The Valsalva Maneuver (Most Common)

• Pinch your nose and gently blow through it while keeping your mouth closed.

• You should feel a light pop or click in your ears — that’s the air entering your middle ear.

• Don’t blow hard! Forceful pressure can injure your eardrums or inner ear.

The Toynbee Maneuver

• Pinch your nose and swallow at the same time.

• The act of swallowing opens your Eustachian tubes, allowing air to move naturally.

The Frenzel Maneuver

• Close your nostrils and mouth, then contract the muscles in your throat as if saying “ng.”

• This technique is used by freedivers and advanced scuba divers — it’s effective at deeper depths and requires less force.

Gentle Pre-Dive Equalisation

• Before entering the water, wiggle your jaw, yawn, or swallow several times to loosen your Eustachian tubes.

• Some divers equalise gently on the surface before starting their descent to prepare their ears.

Pro Tip: Equalise every metre or two — not just when you feel pressure. It’s easier to stay ahead than to catch up.

Common Equalisation Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced divers sometimes struggle with their ears. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Waiting too long: Don’t descend more than a metre or two without equalising.

• Forceful blowing: Gentle pressure is enough — too much can damage your ears.

• Descending head-down: Keep your head above your feet to help air move naturally.

• Ignoring congestion: Never dive with a cold, sinus infection, or allergies — blocked Eustachian tubes won’t equalise properly.

• Not ascending when needed: If your ears won’t clear, stop, ascend slightly, and try again. Never push through the pain.

  
  

Easing Equalisation: Preparation and Practice

Stay Hydrated

Dry airways and mucus can block your Eustachian tubes. Drink plenty of water before diving and avoid alcohol or caffeine that can cause dehydration.

Stretch and Loosen Up

Before diving, gently move your jaw, tilt your head side to side, and yawn. This relaxes the muscles around your ears and helps them open more easily.

Clear Congestion Naturally

If you’re slightly stuffy, a warm shower or saline nasal spray before diving can help. Avoid decongestant sprays unless recommended by a doctor — some wear off mid-dive, causing reverse block pain on ascent.

Descend Slowly and Calmly

Equalisation is easier when you’re relaxed. Don’t rush your descent — take your time, breathe steadily, and signal your buddy if you need to pause.

What to Do If Your Ears Won’t Equalise

If you can’t clear your ears:

1. Stop descending immediately.

2. Ascend a metre or two until the discomfort eases.

3. Try again with a gentle swallow, wiggle, or light blow.

4. If it still doesn’t work — end the dive. Forcing it risks rupturing your eardrum.

It’s better to skip one dive than spend weeks recovering from an ear injury. Always prioritise safety over depth or time.

After the Dive: Caring for Your Ears

• Rinse your ears with fresh water to remove salt and bacteria.

• Avoid poking or drying ears with cotton swabs.

• If you feel fullness, crackling, or pain after a dive, rest and see a dive-qualified doctor.

• Don’t dive again until your ears feel completely normal.

Healthy ears mean more comfortable dives — treat them well!

Equalisation doesn’t have to be stressful. With gentle technique, early action, and regular practice, you can prevent ear pain and make every descent smooth and enjoyable.

Remember: start early, equalise often, and never force it. Once you master this simple skill, you’ll dive deeper, longer, and with far more confidence.

If you’re just starting your scuba journey, explore our beginner diving courses in Essex — perfect for learning hands-on equalisation and buoyancy skills in a safe, relaxed environment.

FAQs

Why do my ears hurt when I dive?
Because the water pressure outside your ear increases as you descend. If you don’t equalise, the pressure difference pushes on your eardrum.

How often should I equalise while descending?
Every metre or two — before you feel discomfort.

Can I dive with a cold or blocked nose?
No. Congestion blocks your Eustachian tubes and prevents equalisation, increasing the risk of injury.

What if one ear clears and the other doesn’t?
Pause, ascend slightly, and try gentle manoeuvres like swallowing or tilting your head. Never force air into your ears.