Experiencing Ear Pain During Air Travel, often referred to as “airplane ear,” is a common and uncomfortable issue for many flyers. It’s caused by the rapid changes in air pressure that occur during takeoff and landing, which can create a pressure difference between the outer and middle ear. This pressure imbalance can lead to discomfort, pain, and even temporary hearing loss in some cases. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can employ to prevent and alleviate ear pain, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable flight. Let’s explore some expert-backed tips to help you keep airplane ear at bay.
Simple Techniques to Relieve Ear Pressure
One of the most straightforward ways to combat airplane ear is by actively working to equalize the pressure in your ears. This involves opening the Eustachian tubes, small passages that connect your middle ear to the back of your throat. Here are some techniques you can easily perform during your flight:
Yawning and Swallowing
These natural actions are your first line of defense against ear pain. Yawning and swallowing activate the muscles that open your Eustachian tubes, helping to equalize pressure. To maximize this effect:
- Chew Gum or Suck on Candy: These stimulate saliva production and encourage swallowing, making it easier to open your Eustachian tubes, especially during ascent and descent.
The Valsalva Maneuver
This technique is a bit more deliberate but highly effective. It involves gently forcing air into your Eustachian tubes to equalize pressure. Here’s how to perform the Valsalva maneuver correctly:
- Pinch Your Nostrils: Close your nostrils tightly with your fingers.
- Close Your Mouth: Keep your mouth firmly shut.
- Gently Blow: Try to blow air out of your nose while keeping your nostrils pinched and mouth closed, as if you were trying to clear your nose.
Repeat this maneuver several times, particularly during descent, to help your ears adjust to the changing cabin pressure. You should feel a slight “pop” in your ears when the pressure is equalized.
Timing is Key: Stay Awake During Takeoff and Landing
Sleep might seem appealing on a flight, but if you’re prone to airplane ear, it’s best to stay awake during critical phases of the journey – takeoff and landing. Being awake allows you to be proactive in using the pressure-equalizing techniques mentioned above when you first feel that familiar pressure building in your ears. If you’re asleep, you might miss the early warning signs and allow the pressure to build up, leading to more significant pain.
Plan Ahead: Consider Your Health and Travel Schedule
Sometimes, the best way to avoid airplane ear is to be mindful of your health and travel plans.
Reschedule if Possible When Ill
Flying with a cold, sinus infection, nasal congestion, or an ear infection significantly increases your risk of airplane ear. These conditions can block or inflame your Eustachian tubes, making it harder for them to equalize pressure. If you are feeling unwell, consider rescheduling your flight if possible to avoid added discomfort. Similarly, if you’ve recently had ear surgery, consult your doctor to determine when it’s safe for you to fly again.
Medical Aids: Nasal Sprays, Decongestants, and Allergy Medication
For those who are more susceptible to airplane ear, or are flying with mild congestion, certain over-the-counter medications and devices can offer relief.
Nasal Sprays for Congestion Relief
If you experience nasal congestion, a nasal spray can be a valuable tool. Use it about 30 minutes to an hour before takeoff and landing to help clear your nasal passages and Eustachian tubes. However, it’s crucial to use nasal sprays sparingly. Overuse, typically beyond three to four days, can actually worsen congestion in the long run.
Decongestant Pills: Use with Caution
Oral decongestants can also help to reduce congestion and open up your Eustachian tubes. If you choose to use them, take them about 30 minutes to an hour before your flight. However, decongestants are not suitable for everyone. If you have heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, you should avoid oral decongestants. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether decongestants are safe for you.
Allergy Medication for Allergy Sufferers
If allergies are a contributing factor to your nasal congestion, taking your allergy medication about an hour before your flight can be beneficial. This can help to reduce allergic reactions that might exacerbate ear pressure issues.
Filtered Earplugs: A Specialized Solution
For frequent flyers or those particularly prone to airplane ear, filtered earplugs are designed to help. These earplugs work by slowly equalizing the pressure against your eardrum during ascents and descents. You can find them at most drugstores, airport gift shops, or hearing clinics. It’s important to note that even with filtered earplugs, you may still need to use techniques like yawning and swallowing to fully relieve pressure, but they can provide an extra layer of protection.
When to Consider Medical Intervention
In rare cases of severe and recurrent airplane ear, or for individuals undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, more proactive medical solutions might be necessary. If you experience severe airplane ear frequently, especially if you fly often, or if you are undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for wound healing, your doctor might recommend surgically placing tubes in your eardrums. These tubes, known as tympanostomy tubes or pressure equalization (PE) tubes, help to drain fluid, ventilate the middle ear, and ensure continuous pressure equalization between the outer and middle ear. This is generally considered a last resort for persistent and severe cases.
By understanding the causes of airplane ear and implementing these preventative measures and relief techniques, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing ear pain during air travel and enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free flying experience.
