Does the excitement of your much-awaited trip suddenly fade away due to a sharp, excruciating pain in your ears as soon as your flight takes off? And what’s worse, it not only disappears mid-flight but remains there even after you land.

Even if you haven’t experienced it yourself, chances are you know someone who can’t stop complaining about discomfort during their flight. The issue is real, and it can be more than just persistent ear twitching – airplane ear can be downright painful.

So, why does this happen?

“Airborne eardrum, also called barotrauma, occurs when the pressure in the middle ear is not equal to the air pressure outside. This can cause ear pain, discomfort, and even hearing loss. “Maybe,” tells Dr. Girish Anand MS, Consultant – ENT Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru. India Today,

Doctors explain that as an airplane takes off or lands, the air pressure in the cabin changes. He says, “Normally, the Eustachian tube, a small canal connecting the middle ear to the back of the nasal cavity, equalizes the pressure. However, sometimes, this tube can become blocked, causing the pressure not to equalize. Finds.”

On this, Dr. Amitabh Malik, Head and HOD of ENT Department, Paras Health, Gurugram, says that factors like sinus congestion, cold or allergies can also affect the function of the Eustachian tube, making it more difficult for the ear to adjust. Is. For change in pressure.

This is quite common

According to Dr. Malik, ear pain is a common occurrence on airplanes, especially during flight. The doctor says, “Almost everyone experiences some degree of ear discomfort during flight, but some are more sensitive. People with sinus problems, colds, nasal congestion or allergies are at greater risk because these Conditions can interfere with the function of the Eustachian tube.”

Additionally, infants and young children are more likely to struggle with air ear because their Eustachian tubes are smaller and do not work as effectively. People with a history of ear infections or certain physical problems may also experience more severe symptoms.

Know the symptoms

Dr. Manjunath MK, Senior Consultant – ENT Surgeon, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, mentions that the most common symptom of airplane ear is a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. One may also experience ringing in the ears or a temporary loss of hearing.

In more severe cases, it can cause ear pain, and rarely, a hole in the eardrum.

save your ears

• To prevent or relieve the discomfort of airplane ear, try yawning or swallowing frequently, as this helps open the Eustachian tube and equalize pressure.
• Chewing gum or sucking on candy can promote swallowing, which also balances the pressure in the ear.
• If you’re struggling with sinus congestion or a cold, using a decongestant or nasal spray before your flight can reduce the risk of discomfort.
• The Valsalva maneuver, gently blowing your nose with your mouth closed, can also help open the Eustachian tube.
• It’s best to avoid flying when you’re sick, especially if you have a cold, allergies or a sinus infection, and if possible, delay your travel until you’re symptom-free.
• When flying, try not to fall asleep during take-off or landing, as being alert can help you manage pressure changes.
• Keep chewing gum or chewing sugar candy to encourage swallowing. You can also gently open your ears by blowing your nose while closing your nostrils.

When to seek professional help?

According to experts, in most cases, airplane ear heals on its own after the flight without the need for medical treatment.

However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort, it is advisable to consult a health care professional.

If there is an infection or the eardrum has ruptured, medical treatment such as antibiotics, pain relievers or ear drops may be needed. In extreme cases, doctors may recommend a procedure to help equalize the pressure in the ears.

Now, before checking in…

By keeping some easy tips in mind, you can easily avoid airplane ear. Stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine during your flight.

Drinking warm water is a useful trick to soothe your ears while traveling. And don’t forget to pack some chewing gum in your carry-on, it’s a handy way to help manage pressure changes.