What is the typical symptom of external ear squeeze?

• A. Sharp pain in the ear
• B. Hearing loss
• C. Dizziness
• D. Chest pain

Answer: (A)

External ear squeeze occurs when ambient water pressure increases faster than the external ear canal can accommodate, stretching the canal tissues and causing immediate pain. The sharp, stabbing ear pain is the hallmark symptom you’d expect to notice during a dive when you can’t equalize promptly. Hearing loss isn’t typical for this type of squeeze unless the pressure also affects the middle ear; dizziness points to inner ear involvement, and chest pain isn’t related to this condition. If you feel this pain, pause descent, attempt gentle equalization, and ascend if pain persists or worsens.