7 Simple Ways To Prevent Airplane Ear Before You Fly

If you've ever flown, you know the feeling. Your ears begin to pop or feel blocked during takeoff or landing. It's uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as airplane ear, is a result of changes in air pressure that affect the middle ear. While it's a regular and temporary occurrence, if left unaddressed, it can lead to hearing changes or discomfort that may last well after your flight.

For those who already use a hearing aid, the pressure changes can be especially noticeable, making it even more critical to manage ear pressure during your flight.

Let's walk you through seven simple and safe ways to prevent airplane ears before your next flight, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey.

What Is Airplane Ear?

Airplane ear, also known as ear barotrauma, is a condition that occurs when there's a pressure imbalance between the middle ear and the cabin air during a flight. When the pressure inside your ear doesn't equalize with the changing pressure outside, it leads to that uncomfortable "plugged" feeling.

The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, is responsible for balancing this pressure. When the Eustachian tube is unable to open and close properly in response to changes in altitude, discomfort and pain can result.

Common Symptoms of Airplane Ear:

• Ear pressure or fullness
• Muffled hearing
• Mild pain or popping sensations
• Occasional dizziness or ringing

Why Does Airplane Ear Happen?

Airplane ear typically occurs during takeoff and landing, when rapid changes in altitude create significant pressure differences between the middle ear and the cabin. The Eustachian tube attempts to equalize pressure, but if it can't do so quickly enough, discomfort ensues.

Certain factors, such as colds, sinus infections, allergies, or nasal congestion, can make it more difficult for the Eustachian tube to open, thereby increasing the likelihood of experiencing airplane ear.

7 Simple Ways to Prevent Airplane Ear Before You Fly

1. Yawn, Swallow, or Chew Gum During Takeoff and Landing

   These simple actions can help open your Eustachian tubes and naturally balance air pressure. Chewing gum or sucking on candy can keep the muscles around the tubes active, which helps with equalizing pressure.

2. Use the Valsalva Maneuver

   Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and gently blow to equalize the pressure in your ears. Be cautious, don't blow too forcefully, as this can cause damage to the eardrum. A gentle blow is all it takes.

3. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Sleeping During Descent

   Drinking water keeps your nasal passages moist, which helps regulate pressure during flight. Staying awake during landing allows you to swallow frequently, which helps equalize pressure naturally.

4. Take a Decongestant or Use Nasal Spray Before Flying

   If you're dealing with a cold or allergies, take a nasal spray or oral decongestant before your flight. This can help reduce nasal swelling and clear the Eustachian tube, making it easier to balance the pressure in your ears.

5. Try Specialized Earplugs for Flying

   Pressure-regulating earplugs help slow the rate of pressure change inside your ears. These are especially helpful for frequent travelers or those who are prone to ear pain while flying. They can be purchased at most drugstores or online.

6. Avoid Flying When You Are Sick

   If you're suffering from a cold, ear infection, or sinus congestion, it's better to postpone your flight if possible. Flying while congested increases the risk of severe pain, discomfort, and even ear injury due to difficulty equalizing ear pressure.

7. Do Gentle Ear Exercises Before Takeoff

   Gently massage the area behind your ears and along your jawline to encourage fluid movement and promote relaxation. Slow yawning or swallowing before the flight helps your ears adjust to the change in pressure more easily.

Airplane Ear Remedies If You Still Feel Blocked

If you still experience blocked ears after landing, try the following remedies:

• Yawning or swallowing repeatedly.
• Apply a warm compress to the affected ear to soothe the discomfort.
• Inhale steam to help open your nasal passages.
• Use an over-the-counter decongestant if appropriate.

If symptoms persist, consult an ENT specialist for further treatment of ear problems related to air travel.

When to See a Doctor?

In most cases, the earache caused by airplane pressure clears up on its own. However, you should see a doctor if:

• Ear pain or blockage lasts more than 48 hours.
• You notice discharge or fluid coming from the ear.
• You experience severe dizziness or hearing loss.

Early treatment can help prevent complications, such as ear infections or damage to the eardrum.

Prevent Airplane Ear with Tips from Hoffmann Audiology

Staying hydrated, using earplugs, and practicing techniques such as yawning, swallowing, or using decongestants can help alleviate the discomfort caused by ear pressure imbalances. By being proactive and taking simple steps during your flight, you can ensure a more comfortable travel experience.

At Hoffmann Audiology, our team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and treatment options to help you manage ear discomfort and maintain your hearing health.

Ready for your next flight? Keep these tips in mind to prevent airplane ears and enjoy a smoother journey. If you're experiencing ear congestion or pain, don't hesitate to contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do earplugs really help prevent ear pain associated with airplane travel?

   Yes, pressure-regulating earplugs, like EarPlanes, can help reduce the rate of pressure changes inside your ears, making them more comfortable during a flight.

2. Can I fly if I have a cold or sinus infection?

   It's not recommended. Flying with a cold or sinus infection can make it more difficult for your ears to equalize pressure, leading to increased discomfort. If possible, delay your flight.

3. What is the best home remedy for airplane ear?

   Yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum are excellent home remedies. If symptoms persist, try a Valsalva maneuver or warm compresses to help relieve pressure.

4. Can children get airplane ears?

   Yes, children can experience ear pain, also known as "airplane ears," especially if they have a cold or allergies. Encourage them to drink fluids or chew gum during takeoff and landing to help prevent dehydration.

5. Do allergy medicines help prevent airplane ear?

   Yes, allergy medications, such as decongestants or antihistamines, can help clear the Eustachian tube and reduce the risk of ear discomfort during a flight.