Home Remedies for Annoying Airplane Ear

Airplane ear, also known as ear barotrauma, is a common issue that affects many travelers, especially during takeoff and landing. The condition occurs when the pressure in the middle ear is not equal to the pressure in the environment outside the ear. This imbalance can cause discomfort, a feeling of fullness, pain, or temporary hearing loss. For most people, the symptoms are mild and short-lived, but for others, they can be frustrating and disruptive.

Understanding What Causes Airplane Ear

The discomfort you feel in your ears during a flight happens because the Eustachian tube—an important passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and upper throat—is not equalizing pressure properly. When the plane ascends or descends rapidly, the sudden changes in air pressure challenge the ear’s ability to adjust. If the Eustachian tube is blocked or sluggish, it causes a vacuum effect on the eardrum, which can lead to pain or a popping sensation.

This issue is more likely if you’re congested from a cold, sinus infection, or allergies. Infants and young children are also more susceptible because their Eustachian tubes are smaller and more easily blocked.

Symptoms of Airplane Ear

Symptoms may vary in intensity depending on the severity of the pressure imbalance. Some common symptoms include:

• Ear pain or discomfort, especially during descent
• Muffled or reduced hearing
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness or mild vertigo
• Mild ear popping or clicking sensations

In most cases, airplane ear resolves quickly once the plane lands and pressure stabilizes. However, severe or prolonged symptoms may need medical attention.

Simple Remedies to Ease Airplane Ear

1. Swallowing and Yawning

One of the most effective and simple ways to relieve airplane ear is to swallow frequently. Swallowing helps activate the muscles that open the Eustachian tubes, allowing air to flow and balance pressure.

Yawning works in a similar way. These actions are especially useful during ascent and descent, when pressure changes happen quickly. Encourage children to drink from a bottle or suck on a pacifier during flights to help stimulate swallowing.

2. Chewing Gum or Sucking on Candy

Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can stimulate saliva production and promote frequent swallowing. Both methods are inexpensive, easy, and often very effective for keeping ear pressure balanced during a flight. Keep a pack of sugar-free gum or lozenges in your carry-on as a simple preventive measure.

3. The Valsalva Maneuver

This technique involves gently blowing air through your nose while pinching your nostrils closed and keeping your mouth shut. The increase in pressure helps open the Eustachian tubes and equalize pressure in the middle ear. To perform it:

• Take a breath and close your mouth.
• Pinch your nose shut.
• Gently blow as if you are trying to blow your nose.

Avoid blowing too hard, as this can damage the eardrum. Use this method during descent, especially if you feel pressure building in your ears.

4. Toynbee Maneuver

This method combines swallowing with pinching the nose. It’s another way to help open the Eustachian tube and ease pressure. Simply pinch your nose shut, take a sip of water, and swallow.

5. Use of Filtered Earplugs

Special earplugs like EarPlanes are designed to slow the rate of pressure change on the eardrum. They contain a small filter that regulates airflow and can be helpful for people who are especially sensitive to pressure changes. These plugs are available over-the-counter and are reusable or disposable depending on the brand. Insert them before takeoff and descent for best results.

Additional Tips and Home Remedies

1. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Alcohol or Caffeine

Drinking plenty of water before and during the flight helps keep your mucous membranes moist and supports Eustachian tube function. Dehydration can make it harder for your body to equalize pressure. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which may dry out your airways and make symptoms worse.

2. Nasal Decongestants or Antihistamines

If you are congested from allergies or a cold, over-the-counter nasal sprays or oral decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) can reduce swelling in the nasal passages and improve airflow through the Eustachian tube. Start taking them 30 minutes to an hour before your flight. Use them as directed and avoid prolonged use, as they may cause rebound congestion.

If you have allergies, an antihistamine taken in advance may also help minimize swelling and irritation in the upper airways.

4. Steam Inhalation Before the Flight

Breathing in warm steam before boarding can help clear nasal passages and moisten the airway. You can take a hot shower or use a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head to trap the steam. This simple practice can improve your comfort during the flight.

5. Warm Compress After Landing

If you experience lingering discomfort or pressure after the flight, applying a warm compress over the affected ear can promote circulation and relax surrounding muscles. It may also encourage the Eustachian tube to open naturally.

When to See a Doctor

Although airplane ear usually clears up on its own, some cases require medical attention. Consult a doctor if:

• Your symptoms last more than a few hours after landing.
• You experience severe pain, dizziness, or hearing loss.
• You notice fluid or blood draining from your ear.
• You have a history of ear problems or recent ear surgery.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe nasal steroids or suggest other interventions like myringotomy (a small incision in the eardrum to relieve pressure).

Preventive Steps for Future Flights

• Avoid flying if you have a sinus infection, cold, or ear infection unless necessary.
• Use filtered earplugs and nasal decongestants if you’re prone to ear barotrauma.
• Choose window or aisle seats where you can move your jaw and head freely.
• Perform pressure-relieving techniques during takeoff and descent.