What is barotrauma primarily the result of?

Barotrauma is primarily the result of the inability of the ear to equalize pressure. When divers descend or ascend rapidly, changes in ambient pressure occur. The ears have a natural mechanism for equalizing pressure called the Eustachian tube, which allows air to flow into the middle ear to match the surrounding pressure. If a diver does not equalize pressure effectively, it can lead to discomfort or injury, commonly known as ear barotrauma. This can manifest as pain, dizziness, or even damage to the ear structures.

Other factors such as exposure to high levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen toxicity, while important considerations during dives, do not directly cause barotrauma. Rapid ascent can lead to other decompression-related issues such as decompression sickness, but it is not the primary cause of barotrauma, which specifically pertains to pressure differential effects, particularly in the ears.