Mask Squeeze

mask squeeze

Mask squeeze is a type of pressure injury that occurs when the pressure inside a diving mask becomes lower than the water pressure outside it during descent. That negative pressure pulls the mask tightly against the face and can cause small blood vessels around the eyes and face to rupture, leading to bruising, redness, swelling, or even blood in or around the eyes. People may notice pain, a feeling of pressure, or visible marks on the face after a descent where the mask was not equalized. It usually happens when divers forget to exhale a little air through their nose into the mask as they go deeper or when the mask does not fit properly. Preventing it is straightforward: let a small puff of air into the mask through the nose during descent, make sure the mask fits well, and adjust the strap so it’s snug but not overly tight. Avoiding strong suction with the mask and removing contact lenses if recommended can also help. Most cases are minor and heal without treatment, but significant bleeding, vision changes, or persistent pain should be evaluated by a medical professional. Mask squeeze matters because it affects a sensitive area and is an easy-to-avoid sign that pressure equalization techniques need attention.