Q1_Winter_2017_AlertDiver

I have noticed that beginning scuba

divers often get nosebleeds after

dives. What causes them?

Divers, especially new divers, sometimes

report nosebleeds after diving primarily

because they are unaware of the

importance of equalizing the sinuses and middle

ears. The barotrauma that results when the

sinuses are not equalized can cause blood vessels

in the lining of the nose to burst. These vessels

lie very close to the mucous membranes that

line the nose and sinuses, and the blood can

come from either of these linings. This type of

barotrauma, generally the result of air being

trapped within the sinuses, is not always painful,

though the presence of blood can be disconcerting.

With this type of injury, blood can also run down the

back of the throat or pool in the sinus below the eye

and emerge later. It can also act as a growth medium

for bacteria and lead to sinus infections.

Individuals with a history of sinus trouble, allergies, a

broken nose or a deviated septum as well as divers who

currently have a cold may find equalization difficult

and may experience problems with nosebleeds. It’s

always best to not dive with a cold, congestion or any

other condition that might block the sinus passages.

We suggest a slow, gentle descent with frequent

equalizing to help decrease the risk of sinus

barotrauma. Divers who are unable to equalize their

sinuses or have frequent nosebleeds when scuba diving

should see their personal physician or a specialist in

ear, nose and throat (ENT) care for evaluation.

— Dan Nord, EMT-P, CHT

ALERTDIVER.COM

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