A new report suggested that the high speed and sudden turns of a roller coaster ride can also cause ear damage. In the first study of its kind, doctors from Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit discussed the treatment of a 24-year-old man, who, after taking a ride in a roller coaster, suffered from ear barotrauma. Roller coaster reached a maximum speed of 120 miles per hour within four seconds.

When there is a quick change in air pressure that affects the eardrum and pressure in the middle ear, this problem occurs. An individual also develops this condition while scuba diving, air travel, or being near explosives.

The patient's head was turned during the ride, according to the report by Henry Ford Hospital doctors. The man reported feelings of pain and fullness in the right ear, thirty-six hours after the ride. A physical examination revealed that the ride has caused damage to his right ear, though eardrum was not punctured.

Study researcher Kathleen L. Yaremchuk, MD, Chair of the department of otolaryngology at Henry Ford Hospital shared that his ear was exposed to about 0.6 pounds per square inch when the roller coaster accelerated. It is the same measurement used to gauge pressure.

Yaremchuk said, “As rollercoasters continue to push the envelope of speed, otolaryngologists need to be aware of this new cause of barotrauma to the ear. Based on our research, we recommend that passengers remain facing forward for the duration of the ride to not let the full impact of acceleration hit the ear”.