According to research conducted by otolaryngologists at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, roller coasters can give you more than a quick shot of adrenaline. They have linked the force of acceleration in roller coasters to ear barotrauma, which in extreme cases can lead to temporary hearing loss, dizziness, ear pain or the sensation of ear popping.
Ear barotrauma occurs when there is a relatively quick change in pressure outside the ear drum and the pressure in the middle ear space. This common condition is most often occurs during air travel and scuba diving, and most recently to the use of improvised explosive devices in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Today's roller coasters have higher speeds and sharper turns, which are more likely to result in ear injury. In the case studied, a 24-year-old man turned his head during a roller coaster ride, causing his right ear to be exposed to about 0.6 PSI (pounds per square inch) when the roller coaster accelerated. The researchers estimated the ride he was on reached a maximum speed of 120 mph within 4 seconds. The pressure caused barotrauma to the ear, resulting in pain, swelling of the ear canal, and an inflamed ear drum. Study results were presented April 30 at the Triological Society's 113th annual meeting in Las Vegas.
Although the risk of experiencing barotrauma when riding a roller coaster is low, it is most likely to occur if passengers do not remain facing forward during the ride. To minimize your risk, always remain facing forward during the ride to help prevent the full impact of acceleration hitting your ear.