Experiencing that uncomfortable pressure or muffled hearing after a flight, commonly known as “airplane ear,” is a frequent issue for many travelers. This sensation occurs due to the rapid changes in air pressure during ascent and descent, affecting the Eustachian tube, a small passage connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to help your ears pop and relieve this pressure.
Understanding Airplane Ear and Why Ears Pop
Airplane ear, or ear barotrauma, happens when the air pressure in your middle ear and the air pressure in the environment are out of balance. Normally, the Eustachian tube regulates this pressure by opening and allowing air to flow in or out. However, during flights, especially during takeoff and landing, these pressure changes can occur too quickly for the Eustachian tube to adjust, leading to a blocked sensation and discomfort. When your ears “pop,” it signifies that the Eustachian tube has opened, equalizing the pressure and alleviating the symptoms.
Proven Techniques to Pop Your Ears Effectively
Several simple yet effective techniques can encourage your Eustachian tubes to open and equalize the pressure, helping your ears pop and relieving the discomfort of airplane ear.
Yawning and Swallowing: The Natural Relief
Yawning and swallowing are perhaps the most natural and readily available methods to pop your ears. These actions activate the muscles responsible for opening the Eustachian tubes. During ascent and descent, consciously yawn widely and swallow frequently. To enhance swallowing, try sucking on hard candy or chewing gum. The increased saliva production and swallowing motion will help to open up those tubes.
The Valsalva Maneuver: A Controlled Pressure Equalizer
The Valsalva maneuver is a well-known technique for equalizing ear pressure. To perform this maneuver safely and effectively:
- Pinch your nostrils shut with your fingers.
- Close your mouth.
- Gently try to blow air out of your nose while keeping your nostrils pinched and mouth closed.
You should feel a slight pressure build-up in your ears, and ideally, they will pop. It’s important to perform the Valsalva maneuver gently. Forcing it too hard can be harmful. Repeat this several times, especially during the descent phase of your flight, to keep your ears clear.
Chewing Gum or Candy: Sweet Relief Through Swallowing
As mentioned earlier, swallowing is key to opening the Eustachian tubes. Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy encourages frequent swallowing. Start chewing gum or sucking on candy shortly before takeoff and continue through the descent. This simple act can make a significant difference in preventing and relieving airplane ear.
Nasal Sprays and Decongestants: Medication Assistance for Congestion
If you are experiencing nasal congestion due to a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection, using a nasal spray or decongestant can be beneficial. A decongestant nasal spray, used about 30 minutes to an hour before takeoff and landing, can help to open up nasal passages and potentially the Eustachian tubes, making pressure equalization easier.
However, it’s crucial to use nasal sprays sparingly. Overuse, typically beyond three to four days, can lead to rebound congestion, worsening the problem.
Oral decongestant pills can also be considered, taken 30 minutes to an hour before flying. However, these should be used with caution, especially if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, or if you are pregnant. Consult your doctor before using oral decongestants if any of these conditions apply to you.
Filtered Earplugs: Technology for Gradual Pressure Change
Filtered earplugs are specifically designed to help regulate air pressure changes in your ear canal more gradually during flights. These earplugs contain a filter that slows down the rate of air pressure change against your eardrum, giving your Eustachian tubes more time to adjust naturally. While they can be helpful, it’s important to remember that filtered earplugs are not a guaranteed solution for everyone, and you may still need to use techniques like yawning or swallowing to completely relieve pressure.
Prevention is Key: Strategies to Minimize Airplane Ear
Beyond immediate techniques to pop your ears, some preventative measures can reduce your likelihood of experiencing airplane ear in the first place.
Time Your Flights Wisely: Avoid Flying When Sick
If possible, reconsider your travel plans if you are suffering from a cold, sinus infection, nasal congestion, or an ear infection. These conditions can significantly increase your risk of airplane ear because they can cause inflammation and blockage of the Eustachian tubes, making pressure equalization more difficult. If you must fly while ill, be extra diligent with the techniques mentioned above and consider consulting your doctor for advice. If you’ve recently had ear surgery, it’s essential to discuss with your doctor when it is safe for you to fly again.
Stay Awake During Ascent and Descent: Be Proactive with Ear Care
Avoid sleeping during takeoff and landing. Being awake during these critical phases of flight allows you to be proactive in using self-care techniques as soon as you feel pressure changes in your ears. If you are asleep, you won’t be able to consciously yawn, swallow, or perform the Valsalva maneuver when needed.
Allergy Management: Control Allergies Before You Fly
If you suffer from allergies, taking your allergy medication about an hour before your flight can help to minimize allergy-related congestion, which in turn can reduce the risk of airplane ear. Keeping your allergies under control will contribute to clearer nasal passages and easier Eustachian tube function.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While airplane ear is usually a temporary and self-resolving condition, persistent or severe symptoms warrant medical attention. If you experience severe pain, dizziness, hearing loss, or if your symptoms last for more than a few days after flying, consult a doctor. In rare cases, severe airplane ear might require medical intervention. For individuals who frequently fly and are prone to severe airplane ear, or those undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, doctors might recommend surgically placing tubes in the eardrums. These tubes can aid in fluid drainage, ventilate the middle ear, and equalize pressure more effectively.
By understanding the causes of airplane ear and utilizing these proactive techniques and preventative measures, you can significantly reduce discomfort and ensure a more pleasant flying experience.
