Common otolaryngologic problems of flying
Stewart, T.W.
American Family Physician 19(2): 113-119
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-838X PMID: 760435 Document Number: 140145
Pressure-volume changes associated with changing atmospheric pressure precipitate acute inflammation of the sinus and middle ear cavities, known collectively as barotrauma. Barotitis occurs during descent from high altitudes. A partial vacuum develops, manifested by a retracted tympanic membrane. Hemorrhage may occur as a consequence of the vacuum. Similar pathophysiology causes barosinusitis. While the cause of aerodontalgia is not known, pain in the teeth does occur during ascent rather than descent.