That uncomfortable, clogged-ear feeling after a flight, often called “airplane ear” or ear barotrauma, can be a real nuisance. It occurs due to pressure differences affecting your middle ear and the eustachian tube, which regulates air pressure. Instead of enduring that stuffy sensation, here are several safe and natural methods to help your ears pop and restore comfort so you can fully enjoy your travels. These techniques are designed to clear your eustachian tubes and relieve any fluid build-up causing discomfort.
1. Master the Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver is a simple yet effective technique to equalize pressure in your ears. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- Close your mouth firmly.
- Pinch your nostrils shut with your fingers.
- Gently blow air out of your nose while keeping your mouth closed and nostrils pinched. You should feel a slight pressure build-up.
This action creates pressure in the back of your nose, which can help open your eustachian tube and equalize the pressure in your middle ear. You can repeat the Valsalva maneuver as often as needed, even during your flight, especially during takeoff and landing when pressure changes are most significant. However, it’s crucial to blow gently to avoid potentially damaging your eardrums.
2. Try the Toynbee Maneuver
Similar to the Valsalva maneuver, the Toynbee maneuver also aims to equalize ear pressure, but it utilizes swallowing. Follow these steps:
- Pinch your nose closed.
- Swallow while your nostrils are pinched. Taking small sips of water can encourage swallowing.
The act of swallowing with your nose pinched helps to open the eustachian tubes, providing relief from that clogged feeling. This is another safe and easy method you can use both during and after your flight.
3. Use Olive Oil or Hydrogen Peroxide Ear Drops
This method works by softening and loosening earwax, which can sometimes contribute to blocked eustachian tubes. Here’s how to use ear drops effectively:
- Warm a small amount of olive oil or hydrogen peroxide until it’s lukewarm. Ensure it’s not too hot to avoid discomfort or injury.
- Use an ear dropper to draw up the lukewarm liquid.
- Lie down on your side with the affected ear facing upwards.
- Place three to five drops of the warmed olive oil or hydrogen peroxide into your ear canal.
- Remain lying down in this position for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the liquid to soften the earwax.
- Turn over so that the treated ear is now facing downwards, allowing the liquid, earwax, and any drainage to flow out. Have a towel ready to catch any discharge.
- Gently wipe away any excess liquid near the entrance of your ear canal with a cotton ball or tissue.
You can repeat this process up to three times a day if necessary.
4. Apply a Warm Compress
A warm compress can help to loosen fluids in your ear and provide relief. Here’s how:
- Soak a clean washcloth in warm water.
- Wring out the excess water so the cloth is damp but not dripping.
- Apply the warm washcloth to the affected ear, covering the outer ear area.
- Leave the warm compress in place for 5 to 10 minutes.
The gentle warmth can help to encourage drainage and alleviate pressure. Alternatively, you can use a heating pad set on a low setting for a similar effect, but avoid using a wet compress with electric heating devices.
5. Steam Inhalation for Ear Relief
Steam inhalation is a natural decongestant that can help to thin mucus and earwax, promoting ear drainage.
- Boil water in a pot and carefully pour it into a large, heat-safe bowl.
- Lean over the bowl, positioning your face above the steam.
- Drape a towel over your head to create a tent, trapping the steam and directing it towards your face and ears.
- Inhale the steam deeply. Be cautious to keep a safe distance to avoid scalding.
- Continue steaming until you feel your ear passages starting to clear.
For added relief, consider adding a couple of drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil to the hot water, as these essential oils possess anti-inflammatory properties that may further soothe discomfort.
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Steaming is a natural way to unpop ears after flying and relieve ear congestion.
In-flight Steam Tip: For quick relief during a flight, ask a flight attendant for a tea bag and two cups. Steep the tea bag in hot water in one cup, then transfer the tea to the empty cup, keeping the tea bag and a bit of water in the first cup. Hold the first cup with the tea bag up to your ear; the steam generated can provide localized relief. A hot, steamy shower after your flight can also be beneficial.
Preventing Airplane Ear on Your Next Trip
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to minimize ear discomfort during future flights:
- Take a decongestant: Consider taking an over-the-counter decongestant like Sudafed about an hour before your flight. This can help to reduce mucus and open up your sinuses and eustachian tubes. Always follow the product instructions and consult a doctor if you have any health concerns.
- Use a nasal spray: Flight attendants often recommend using a nasal spray before boarding and approximately 45 minutes before landing. Nasal sprays can help to keep your nasal passages clear and eustachian tubes functioning optimally.
- Wear earplugs designed for flying: Special earplugs are available that are designed to regulate air pressure changes in the ear canal, reducing discomfort during flights.
- Chew gum or suck on hard candy: The act of chewing, yawning, and swallowing can help to activate the muscles that open the eustachian tubes, particularly during takeoff and landing.
By employing these techniques, you can effectively unpop your ears after flying and significantly reduce the chances of experiencing airplane ear in the future, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
