Which condition may cause cold water to induce vertigo if a diver has a ruptured eardrum?

Cold water can lead to vertigo in divers with a ruptured eardrum due to the impact on the vestibular system, which is responsible for balancing and spatial orientation. When cold water enters into the middle ear through a rupture, the temperature change can affect the fluid dynamics within the inner ear. This can confuse the body’s balance sensors, leading to feelings of dizziness or vertigo.

The vestibular system reacts to temperature changes because of the differential in density and viscosity of the fluids in the ear. A ruptured eardrum compromises the normal pressure balance, making the system more susceptible to disturbances, particularly those caused by external elements like cold water. As the balance sensors are exposed to this sudden change, it can trigger vertiginous sensations.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial for divers, especially those with ear injuries, as it highlights the risks associated with immersion in cold water and the importance of avoiding diving until the ear has healed completely.