Many people experience ear discomfort when flying. This can be caused by changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and can even lead to temporary hearing loss in some cases. Luckily, there are several ways to prevent ear discomfort when flying. Keep reading to discover our expert tips.
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Table of Contents
Understanding Ear Discomfort When Flying
Causes of Ear Discomfort When Flying
Ear discomfort when flying is a common issue experienced by many people. The discomfort is caused by changes in air pressure that occur during takeoff and landing. As the airplane ascends or descends, the air pressure in the cabin changes rapidly, causing a difference in pressure between the inside of the ear and the outside. This pressure difference can cause discomfort or pain in the ear.
The ear discomfort when flying can also be caused by the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. When the pressure inside the middle ear is different from the pressure outside the ear, the Eustachian tube opens to equalize the pressure. However, if the Eustachian tube is blocked or doesn’t open properly, it can cause discomfort or pain in the ear.
Pre-existing Conditions that Increase Ear Discomfort When Flying
Some pre-existing conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing ear discomfort when flying. These conditions include:
- Ear infections
- Blocked sinuses
- Nasal congestion
- Allergies
- Recent ear surgery
If you have any of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor before flying to determine the best course of action to prevent ear discomfort when flying.
How Ear Discomfort Affects the Body
Ear discomfort when flying can be more than just a minor annoyance. It can cause a range of symptoms that affect the body, including:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Difficulty hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
If left untreated, ear discomfort can lead to more serious complications, such as a ruptured eardrum or permanent hearing loss.
Pre-flight Preparations
Before boarding a flight, there are several things travelers can do to help prevent ear discomfort during takeoff and landing. These are simple steps that can make a significant difference in reducing the discomfort associated with changes in air pressure.
Click here to see our comprehensive guide to making your flight more comfortable
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential when flying. Dehydration can cause the mucus membranes in the nose and throat to dry out, making it more difficult to equalize pressure in the ears. Drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages can help keep the body hydrated and reduce the risk of ear discomfort.
This post comprehensively reviews the best reusable water bottles for traveling.
Chew Gum or Suck on Candy
Chewing gum or sucking on candy can help relieve ear discomfort when flying by encouraging swallowing. Swallowing helps to open the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. This helps to equalize the pressure in the ears and reduce the risk of discomfort. These hard candies have double the usefulness. They prevent nausea and motion sickness while helping with ear discomfort.
Use Earplugs or Noise-Canceling Headphones
Using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help reduce the impact of changes in air pressure on the ears. These devices can help to equalize the pressure in the ears by reducing the amount of external noise that reaches the inner ear. This can help to reduce the discomfort associated with changes in air pressure.
When using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Improper use of these devices can actually increase the risk of ear discomfort by creating a vacuum effect that can cause the Eustachian tubes to close.
In-flight Techniques
There are several techniques that can be used during a flight to prevent ear discomfort. These techniques work by equalizing the pressure in the middle ear with the pressure in the surrounding environment. Some of the most effective techniques include:
Swallowing and Yawning
Swallowing and yawning are two of the most common techniques used to equalize ear pressure during a flight. These actions activate the muscles that open the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. Swallowing and yawning can be done at any time during the flight, but are most effective during takeoff and landing.
Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver is another technique that can be used to equalize ear pressure during a flight. To perform this maneuver, close the mouth and pinch the nostrils shut while gently blowing out. This action can help to open the Eustachian tubes and equalize the pressure in the middle ear. However, the Valsalva maneuver should be done with caution, as blowing too hard can cause damage to the ears.
Toynbee Maneuver
The Toynbee maneuver is another technique that can be used to equalize ear pressure during a flight. To perform this maneuver, pinch the nose shut and swallow at the same time. This action can help to open the Eustachian tubes and equalize the pressure in the middle ear. The Toynbee maneuver is a gentle technique that can be done at any time during the flight.
Jaw Thrust
The jaw thrust technique is another technique that can be used to equalize ear pressure during a flight. To perform this maneuver, move the jaw forward and backward while keeping the mouth closed. This action can help to open the Eustachian tubes and equalize the pressure in the middle ear. The jaw thrust technique is a gentle technique that can be done at any time during the flight.
Post-flight Care
After landing, it is important to take care of your ears to prevent any discomfort or pain. Here are some tips to help you take care of your ears after a flight:
Avoid Loud Noises
Exposure to loud noises can cause further damage to your ears and worsen any discomfort you may be experiencing. Avoid loud music, concerts, or any other loud noises for at least 24 hours after your flight.
Avoid Smoking or Secondhand Smoke
Smoking and secondhand smoke can irritate your ears and nasal passages, making it harder for them to drain properly. Avoid smoking or being around smokers for at least 24 hours after your flight.
Rest and Stay Hydrated
Resting and staying hydrated can help your body recover from the stress of flying and prevent any further discomfort. Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of water to help your body recover and reduce any inflammation in your ears.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to prevent ear discomfort when flying, such as yawing or gently blowing out while pinching the nostrils and keeping the mouth closed. It is important to start equalizing the pressure early and to continue doing so throughout the flight, especially during takeoff and landing. Some other ways to prevent ear discomfort when flying include using filtered earplugs, taking decongestants, and avoiding sleeping during takeoff and landing. It is also important to stay hydrated and to avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration and make ear discomfort when flying worse.
By following these tips, travelers can enjoy a comfortable and pain-free flight.
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