Barotrauma injuries are caused by what mechanism?

• A. Overhydration of tissues
• B. Oxygen deficiency
• C. Injury from pressure changes across body surfaces
• D. Heat damage to tissues

Answer: (C)

Barotrauma happens when a change in ambient pressure creates a mismatch with the pressure inside air-filled spaces or other compartments in the body, causing mechanical stress that can stretch, damage, or rupture tissues. Gas-filled areas like the ears, sinuses, and lungs are especially vulnerable because they can’t immediately equalize with the surrounding pressure. For divers or people experiencing rapid altitude changes, this pressure differential across body surfaces leads to tissue injury. It isn’t caused by overhydration, oxygen deficiency, or heat damage.