Experiencing that uncomfortable pressure and muffled hearing as your plane ascends or descends? You’re likely dealing with airplane ear, a common condition caused by pressure changes during flights. Fortunately, there are several proven methods to help your ears pop and relieve that pressure, ensuring a more comfortable journey. This guide will walk you through effective techniques on How Do You Make Your Ears Pop After Flying or during a flight, turning your travel experience from discomfort to smooth sailing.
Understanding Airplane Ear and Why Ears Pop
Before diving into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand why airplane ear occurs. The middle ear is an air-filled space behind your eardrum, connected to the back of your nose and upper throat by a narrow passageway called the Eustachian tube. This tube’s crucial role is to equalize pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment.
During changes in altitude, such as during airplane takeoff and landing, the air pressure in the cabin changes rapidly. If the Eustachian tube doesn’t adjust quickly enough, a pressure difference builds up between your outer and middle ear. This pressure difference is what causes the symptoms of airplane ear – discomfort, pain, and that plugged-up feeling. When your ears “pop,” it signifies that the Eustachian tube has opened, equalizing the pressure and relieving the discomfort.
Proven Techniques to Pop Your Ears on a Plane
So, how do you make your ears pop after flying or during the flight to prevent or alleviate airplane ear? Here are effective techniques you can use:
1. Yawn and Swallow Frequently
Yawning and swallowing are natural actions that activate the muscles controlling the Eustachian tube. These actions can help open the tube, allowing air to flow and equalize pressure.
- Consciously Yawn: Even if you don’t feel tired, try to yawn widely. This often opens the Eustachian tubes effectively.
- Swallow Purposefully: Swallowing also engages the necessary muscles. You can stimulate swallowing by:
- Chewing Gum or Sucking on Candy: These actions naturally increase saliva production and swallowing frequency.
- Sipping Water or Juice: Taking small sips of a drink can also encourage swallowing.
Do these exercises especially during the crucial phases of flight – ascent and descent.
2. The Valsalva Maneuver: A Gentle Blow
The Valsalva maneuver is a well-known technique for equalizing ear pressure. Perform it gently:
- 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 and mouth closed. You should feel a slight pressure in your ears.
Repeat this maneuver several times, particularly during descent, until your ears pop. Caution: Avoid blowing too forcefully, as this can be harmful. Gentle pressure is all that’s needed.
3. Stay Awake During Takeoff and Landing
Being awake during takeoff and landing is crucial because it allows you to actively use these techniques when you feel pressure changes beginning. If you are asleep, you won’t be able to react to the pressure and perform the necessary actions to help your ears pop.
4. Nasal Spray or Decongestants: Open Up Nasal Passages
If nasal congestion is contributing to your airplane ear, a nasal spray or decongestant can be helpful. Congestion can block the Eustachian tubes, making it harder for them to equalize pressure.
- Nasal Sprays: Use an over-the-counter saline or decongestant nasal spray about 30 minutes to an hour before takeoff and landing. Saline sprays help moisturize nasal passages, while decongestant sprays reduce swelling in the nasal passages, potentially opening up the Eustachian tubes. Note: Avoid overuse of decongestant nasal sprays as they can worsen congestion if used for more than three to four days.
- Oral Decongestants: Decongestant pills taken orally can also be effective if taken 30 minutes to an hour before flying. However, they may have side effects and are not suitable for everyone, especially those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using oral decongestants.
5. Allergy Medication for Allergy Sufferers
If allergies contribute to your nasal congestion, taking your allergy medication about an hour before your flight can help reduce congestion and improve Eustachian tube function.
6. Filtered Earplugs: Gradual Pressure Equalization
Special filtered earplugs are designed to slowly equalize pressure against your eardrum during ascents and descents. These earplugs have a tiny filter that helps regulate air pressure changes. You can find them at drugstores, airport shops, or hearing clinics. Even with filtered earplugs, you might still need to use yawning and swallowing techniques for optimal comfort.
7. Reconsider Travel if Unwell
If you have a cold, sinus infection, nasal congestion, or an ear infection, flying can exacerbate ear problems. If possible, reconsider your travel plans until you recover. If flying is unavoidable, consult your doctor for advice and potential preventative measures. Similarly, if you’ve recently had ear surgery, discuss with your doctor when it’s safe to fly.
8. Medical Intervention: Ear Tubes for Severe Cases
For individuals prone to severe airplane ear or those who fly very frequently, or are undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a more long-term solution might be needed. In these cases, doctors may surgically insert small tubes into the eardrums. These tubes, known as tympanostomy tubes or pressure equalization (PE) tubes, help to:
- Drain Fluid: Aid in draining fluid from the middle ear.
- Ventilate the Middle Ear: Allow air to circulate in the middle ear.
- Equalize Pressure: Maintain pressure balance between the outer and middle ear, reducing the likelihood of airplane ear.
This is usually considered for chronic issues and is not a typical solution for occasional airplane ear.
Fly Comfortably and Pop Those Ears!
Knowing how do you make your ears pop after flying or during your flight is key to a more enjoyable travel experience. By employing these techniques – yawning, swallowing, the Valsalva maneuver, and considering preventative measures like nasal sprays and filtered earplugs – you can effectively manage and relieve airplane ear. Safe travels and may your journey be free from ear discomfort!
