Which body part may experience discomfort if pressure is not equalized during descent?

Discomfort during descent while scuba diving primarily affects the ears due to the difference in pressure between the outside environment and the air-filled spaces in the body. As a diver descends, the pressure increases, and if the pressure in the middle ear does not equalize with the external water pressure, it can lead to a condition known as barotrauma. This occurs because the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, may not open adequately to allow air in, resulting in a feeling of fullness, pain, or even damage to the ear structures.

Practicing equalization techniques, such as the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing against pinched nostrils), helps to equalize the pressure in the ears and prevent discomfort. While other body parts may experience pressure effects, the ears are the most commonly affected because they rely on the equalization process to maintain comfort and prevent injury during descents.