Effect of Self-acupressure on Middle Ear Barotrauma Associated With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Middle ear barotrauma (MEB) is the most common complication during hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Though Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvers have been proposed to prevent MEB, still some patients discontinue HBOT due to severe otalgia, hemorrhage or perforation of tympanic membrane associated with HBOT. Currently, there is no optimal prophylactic management for MEB associated with HBOT. The aim of this protocol is to investigate the efficacy of self-acupressure therapy on MEB associated with HBOT.

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 20 years or order receiving the first HBOT * Alert consciousness Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Having any acute disorder of the ears or upper respiratory tract * Having evidence of neurologic dysfunction precluding them from making an informed decision * Having a tracheostomy or endotracheal intubation * Having received a myringotomy, tympanoplasty, mastoidectomy or tympanostomy tube placement.