If descending and pain is felt in the ears, what should the diver do?

When a diver feels pain in the ears while descending, it indicates a potential barotrauma due to unequal pressure between the ear canal and the environment. This discomfort typically arises because the diver’s Eustachian tubes may not be adequately equalizing the pressure in the middle ear.

The recommended action is to ascend until the pain subsides and then attempt to clear the ears again. Ascending provides immediate relief from the pressure, allowing the diver to alleviate the discomfort and prevent damage to the ear structures. Once at a shallower depth where there is less pressure, the diver can safely attempt to equalize the pressure again, often using techniques such as the Valsalva maneuver or the Toynbee maneuver. This method prioritizes the diver's safety and health while still allowing them the opportunity to continue diving if they can successfully equalize their ears afterward.

Other options suggest either excessive continuation of descent or stopping altogether without addressing the pressure issue, which may not be in the best interests of the diver's health or plans for the dive.