What is a common symptom of an external ear squeeze?

Pain in the external ear canal is a common symptom of an external ear squeeze, which occurs when the pressure inside the ear canal and the external environment are not equalized during a change in pressure, such as when diving or flying. This condition is often referred to as barotrauma of the external ear. The sudden change in pressure can cause discomfort and pain as the tissues in the ear canal become stressed.

In the context of diving, if a diver descends without equalizing the pressure by techniques such as yawning or swallowing, the increased water pressure can lead to such pain. This symptom is a direct result of the inability of the eustachian tube to equalize pressure and can be exacerbated by factors such as a cold or sinus congestion that may block the eustachian tube.

While hearing loss can occur due to barotrauma, it is not as immediate or universally experienced as pain. Severe vertigo indicates a more significant inner ear issue, and fluid drainage is not a primary symptom of an external ear squeeze but might suggest other conditions such as an infection or perforation that are not specific to external ear squeeze.