is an improper opening between the middle ear and the inner ear. The middle ear is filled with air, the inner air with fluid. When there is a defect in the membranes which separate the middle and inner ear, the changes in air pressure in the middle ear will directly impact the inner ear, disturbing the balance and hearing centers, resulting in vertigo, associated symptoms and hearing problems. It is often caused by a direct blow to the ear, or by rapid and substantial changes in either atmospheric pressure or intracranial pressure, resulting from barotrauma. For more info click here.
leakage of inner ear fluid to the middle ear that occurs without apparent cause or is associated with head trauma, physical exertion, or barotrauma.