Yesterday I tried to use the Otovent for the first time. I tried inflating the balloon with my nose, but it was way too stiff. So I searched for guides on using the Otovent and found this video:
The ENT in the video recommended inflating the balloon with your mouth first then putting it up to your nose, so I tried it this way. The balloon was very hard to inflate with my mouth (first clue that I should have picked up on), but I managed to inflate it. I then put it up to my nose and plugged the other nostril. When I opened the balloon and swallowed I felt a pressure in my left ear greater than anything I've ever felt in my life. No pain but it was an uncomfortable feeling to say the least. I felt a little light headed for a few minutes afterwards.
It's been a day and so far there's no increase in tinnitus or decrease in hearing, but definitely won't be doing that again.
The ENT in the video recommended inflating the balloon with your mouth first then putting it up to your nose, so I tried it this way. The balloon was very hard to inflate with my mouth (first clue that I should have picked up on), but I managed to inflate it. I then put it up to my nose and plugged the other nostril. When I opened the balloon and swallowed I felt a pressure in my left ear greater than anything I've ever felt in my life. No pain but it was an uncomfortable feeling to say the least. I felt a little light headed for a few minutes afterwards.
It's been a day and so far there's no increase in tinnitus or decrease in hearing, but definitely won't be doing that again.
