I had similar problems, and it was discussed in
this thread. Besides other, there were some helpful links from
Tim1 to the DAN website (Divers Alert Network (DAN) is a non-profit medical and research organization dedicated to the safety and health of recreational scuba divers), specifically from Edward Thalmann, M.D., DAN Associate Medical Director:
http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/me...p?articleid=48
http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/me...p?articleid=49
The topic was discussed also on the French Esprit Apnea, and almond oil was recommended
there. It was recommended to well cover the whole ear canal with it before each dive. I think the almond oil you can buy in pharmacies may be better (cleaner) than the one in supermarkets, but it is probably not a big difference. And olive oil should be good as well.
On the other note, this kind of ear troubles is often related to teeth problems. It turned to be true in my case too, although I had rather healthy teeth and never had any pains, just yesterday my dentist, when replacing an old filling, found a very deep caries and a devitalized nerve. It was very close to the sinus and just on the side I had the ear troubles. Quite likely it was related.
Unfortunately I already perforated my weakened tympanum when diving two weeks ago. Although the perforation is so small that even the ENT doctor did not see it, I could clearly hear the air escaping when compensating, I have to stay a month out of water
Hope it will be OK for my trip to Corsica in July!
Wish you good luck with your ears, and highly recommend to get a very good check of your teeth too.
