Device and method for equalizing the pressure in the middle ear

摘要

A method and device useful in assisting an individual in voluntarily inflating the middle ear is described, the device comprising (a) a body having a mouth portion and outer and inner surfaces defining a passageway communicating with an air orifice provided through the mouth portion; (b) a movable valve positioned within the passageway which divides the body into two inner compartments; and (c) a receptacle, such as a balloon, connected to a resistance port communicating through the body; whereby when the user blows air into the body through the mouth portion, the valve is opened to allow the air to enter one of the compartments to fill or inflate the receptacle, thus providing sustained pressure within the user's nasopharynx until substantial equilibrium of the middle ear at ambient pressure is achieved.