Tube in my ear and want to go scuba diving. What are the potential problems?

Question

Hey I just turned 25 and I'm going on a cruise to the Bahamas and would really like to go scuba diving.

I've been swimming before both with and without ear plugs (I know bad me), but when scuba diving you are not allowed to wear ear plugs since the pressure has to equalize.

So I was wondering what might would or could happen if I went anyway without putting plugs in.

Thanks for the info and I would really appreciate it if you could put a reference link with your answer if possible since its a health question.

thanks again,
Cerberus

Answer 1

"This is controversial. Basically, there are two perspectives. On one side, some physicians argue that the tubes are placed in the ear to prevent ear infections by draining fluid. So if water should get into the middle ear, it will probably drain out the tubes.

On the other side are physicians who don't want patients with ear tubes to swim at all. They say that if you mix water and wax in the ear canal, you could get certain bacterial infections. These infections could jeopardize the tubes and even make it necessary to remove them.

A reasonable compromise is this: If patients with ear tubes just want to splash around in the water without submerging their heads, it's OK. If they do want to put their heads under water, then it's best to first fit them with individually molded earplugs. In any case, patients with ear tubes should not dive."

That's from the Mayo Clinic's website on swimming w/ kids
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/childrens-health/CC00003

It seems that more research has been done on surface swimming than deep water swimming with tubes. I would ask your dive coach/instructor, maybe they have encountered this before and can give you some more advice.

Also you may be able to get a call with your doctor (no OV necessary!) to ask his opinion. As an adult your precautions may be slightly different than those of a child with tubes.

Studies do show an increase in infection in chlidren who swam 2+ feet underwater so you most def want to get a professional opinion!!!

Good luck and enjoy you cruise!