A perforated eardrum, also known as a ruptured or burst eardrum, is a tear or hole in the tympanic membrane, which separates your middle and outer ear. This condition can be painful and concerning, especially if you have travel plans. If you’re wondering “Can You Fly With A Broken Eardrum?”, this article will provide you with the essential information to make informed decisions about your travel plans and health.
Understanding a Perforated Eardrum
A perforated eardrum can result from various causes, often occurring suddenly following:
- Ear Infections: Pressure build-up from middle ear infections is a common cause.
- Injury: Direct trauma to the ear, such as a slap to the ear, or inserting objects too far into the ear canal (like cotton swabs), can cause a rupture.
- Loud Noises: Sudden, intense sounds, like explosions, can also damage the eardrum.
- Barotrauma: Changes in air pressure, such as during airplane flights or scuba diving, especially with rapid ascent or descent, can lead to a perforated eardrum.
Symptoms of a perforated eardrum usually manifest abruptly and typically affect only one ear. Common signs include:
- Hearing Loss: You might experience diminished hearing in the affected ear.
- Tinnitus: Ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ear.
- Ear Pain or Earache: Discomfort ranging from mild to intense pain.
- Itching: An itchy sensation within the ear canal.
- Ear Drainage: Clear, bloody, or pus-filled discharge leaking from the ear.
- Dizziness (Vertigo): A sensation of spinning or imbalance.
- Fever: In some cases, particularly if an infection is present.
Is it Safe to Fly with a Perforated Eardrum?
Generally, it is considered safe to fly with a perforated eardrum. Most perforated eardrums heal spontaneously within a couple of months without significant intervention, and flying itself won’t necessarily worsen the perforation. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your comfort and prevent potential complications while flying.
The primary concern when flying with a perforated eardrum is pressure changes. During ascent and descent, the air pressure in the airplane cabin changes rapidly. Normally, the Eustachian tube, a small passage connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, equalizes this pressure. However, with a perforated eardrum, the middle ear is already open to the external environment.
While this might seem like it would alleviate pressure issues, it can also create discomfort and potential problems:
- Discomfort and Pain: Although the pressure is equalized, the open perforation can be sensitive to pressure changes, leading to ear pain or discomfort during flight, especially during descent.
- Increased Risk of Infection: The perforation creates a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the middle ear. The dry cabin air in airplanes can also dry out the mucous membranes, potentially making you more susceptible to infection.
- Exacerbated Tinnitus or Dizziness: Pressure fluctuations might temporarily worsen tinnitus or dizziness symptoms in some individuals.
What to Do If You Have a Perforated Eardrum and Need to Fly
If you have a perforated eardrum and need to travel by air, here are some recommendations to help manage your condition and minimize discomfort:
- Consult Your Doctor: Before flying, it’s crucial to consult your doctor. They can assess your specific situation, confirm if you have an infection, and provide tailored advice. They might prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present or likely.
- Pain Management: Pack over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage any ear pain during the flight. Take them as directed, especially before and during descent.
- Keep Your Ear Dry: Avoid getting water in your ear. When showering or washing your hair before your trip, use a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly to protect your ear canal. Avoid swimming entirely until your eardrum is healed.
- Avoid Earplugs (Generally): While earplugs can help some people with airplane ear, they are generally not recommended for those with perforated eardrums as they can sometimes create pressure imbalances or trap moisture. Discuss earplug use with your doctor.
- Gentle Nose Blowing: If you need to clear your sinuses, blow your nose very gently. Forceful nose blowing can create excessive pressure in the Eustachian tube and potentially hinder eardrum healing or cause further issues.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Staying hydrated helps keep your mucous membranes moist, which can aid Eustachian tube function and reduce discomfort.
Flying After Myringoplasty (Eardrum Repair Surgery)
If you have undergone surgery to repair a perforated eardrum, known as myringoplasty, the advice regarding flying is different. It is crucial to avoid flying after myringoplasty until your doctor gives you clearance. This is because the healing eardrum graft is vulnerable to pressure changes. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate waiting period before it’s safe to fly, typically a few weeks to months, to allow for complete healing and graft stabilization.
Conclusion
Flying with a perforated eardrum is generally considered safe for most individuals, but it’s essential to be aware of potential discomfort and take necessary precautions. Always consult your doctor before flying, especially if you have recently experienced a perforated eardrum or are experiencing symptoms like pain, drainage, or dizziness. By following medical advice and taking sensible steps, you can minimize risks and ensure a more comfortable flying experience while your eardrum heals.
References:
- NHS – Perforated Eardrum
- ENT UK – Hole in the Eardrum (Myringoplasty)
