Have you ever experienced that frustrating muffled hearing or ear discomfort after a flight? It’s a common issue known as airplane ear, or barotrauma of the ear, and it can be quite bothersome. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can employ to prevent this from happening and ensure your hearing remains clear after you land.
Airplane ear occurs because of the pressure difference between the air in your middle ear and the air pressure in the airplane cabin. Your eustachian tubes, small passages that connect your middle ear to the back of your throat, are responsible for equalizing this pressure. When the plane ascends or descends, the air pressure changes rapidly, and if your eustachian tubes can’t adjust quickly enough, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss.
Here’s how you can proactively manage and prevent airplane ear:
Simple Techniques During Ascent and Descent:
-
Yawn and Swallow Actively: Yawning and swallowing are natural actions that activate the muscles responsible for opening your eustachian tubes. Doing this frequently, especially during takeoff and landing, can help equalize the pressure in your ears. To further assist swallowing, try sucking on hard candy or chewing gum.
-
Master the Valsalva Maneuver: This technique is a powerful tool for pressure equalization. To perform the Valsalva maneuver, pinch your nostrils closed, close your mouth, and gently blow air as if you were blowing your nose. Repeat this several times, particularly during descent, to help force air into your eustachian tubes and balance the pressure. Be gentle to avoid injury.
-
Stay Awake During Critical Times: It’s tempting to sleep on a flight, but try to remain awake during takeoff and landing. Being awake allows you to be mindful of ear pressure changes and actively use the techniques mentioned above when you feel pressure building up.
Pre-Flight Preparations and Considerations:
-
Reschedule if Unwell: If you’re experiencing a cold, sinus infection, nasal congestion, or an ear infection, consider postponing your flight. These conditions can make it harder for your eustachian tubes to function properly, increasing your risk of airplane ear. If you’ve recently had ear surgery, consult your doctor to determine the safest time to fly.
-
Nasal Spray for Congestion Relief: If you are prone to nasal congestion, using an over-the-counter nasal decongestant spray about 30 minutes to an hour before takeoff and landing can be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to use nasal sprays sparingly, as overuse (more than three to four days consecutively) can actually worsen congestion.
-
Oral Decongestants with Caution: Decongestant pills taken orally may also help to reduce congestion and prevent airplane ear if taken 30 minutes to an hour before flying. However, exercise caution if you have heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant. In these cases, it’s best to avoid oral decongestants and consult with a healthcare professional.
-
Manage Allergies Proactively: If allergies are a concern, taking your usual allergy medication about an hour before your flight can help minimize congestion and reduce the likelihood of ear problems.
-
Consider Filtered Earplugs: Specially designed filtered earplugs are available that can help slowly equalize the pressure against your eardrum during ascents and descents. These can be purchased at drugstores, airport shops, or hearing clinics. Even with earplugs, it’s still advisable to use techniques like yawning and swallowing to further aid pressure regulation.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
While airplane ear is usually temporary and resolves on its own, if you frequently experience severe airplane ear, fly often, or are undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it’s worth discussing preventative measures with your doctor. In some cases, for individuals with chronic issues, doctors may recommend surgically inserting tubes into the eardrums. These tubes can assist with fluid drainage, ventilate the middle ear, and maintain pressure equalization more effectively.
By understanding the causes of airplane ear and applying these simple yet effective strategies, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing hearing difficulties after flying and ensure a more comfortable travel experience.
