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ear barotrauma
A condition that occurs when there is a difference in pressure between the inside of the ear and the environment, causing discomfort and the sensation of 'popping' in the ears, often experienced during rapid altitude changes.
Examples:
- During our drive up the mountain, I felt my ears pop due to ear barotrauma.
- Climbers often experience ear barotrauma when ascending steep elevations quickly.
autophony
A phenomenon where sounds of one's own voice or breathing are perceived as being amplified in the ears, often linked to changes in pressure.
Examples:
- She noticed autophony when she reached the mountain pass, as her voice sounded unusually loud.
- Autophony can occur when the Eustachian tube fails to equalize pressure during altitude changes.
Eustachian tube dysfunction
A condition where the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, fails to open properly to equalize pressure, leading to discomfort and the feeling of pressure build-up.
Examples:
- His Eustachian tube dysfunction made it uncomfortable to drive through mountainous terrain.
- Many experience Eustachian tube dysfunction when flying or driving up steep hills.
pressure equilibration
The process of equalizing the pressure between the environment and the middle ear, often achieved by swallowing or yawning.
Examples:
- To relieve the discomfort while driving, I practiced pressure equilibration methods like yawning and swallowing.
- Pilots need to master pressure equilibration to avoid discomfort during takeoff and landing.