The feeling that they cover their ears when traveling by plane It’s common and annoying. During takeoff and landing, changes in altitude cause variations in atmospheric pressure that affect the middle ear.
The latter is an internal cavity connected to the back of the nose by the Eustachian tube. This is a key structure for understanding Why do ears become blocked in flight and how to reduce this effect.
The reasons why your ears get blocked when traveling by plane
Ear plugging during flight occurs when there is a pressure imbalance between the middle ear and the environment. The middle ear must maintain balanced pressure with the outside for the eardrum to function properly.
However, when altitude changes during takeoff or landing, air pressure and the Eustachian tube also change. you can’t always match it right away.
- Positive pressure at takeoff: As the plane rises, the external pressure decreases, while that in the middle ear remains higher. This pushes the eardrum outwards, causing a feeling of obstruction.
- Negative landing pressure: During descent, external pressure increases rapidly and middle ear pressure may remain low. In this case, the eardrum is pushed inwards, which also causes blockage and discomfort.
These changes are more noticeable because the air channels in the Eustachian tube cannot immediately compensate for the pressure, creating a blockage.
How does the Eustachian tube work?
THE Eustachian tube It is the canal that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. Its main function is regulate pressure on both sides of the eardrumallowing the middle ear and air pressure to be in balance. This tube opens naturally towards the swallowing, yawning or chewingallowing air to pass into the middle ear to compensate for changes in pressure.
Lack of synchronization between middle ear pressure and atmospheric pressure causes the feeling of blocked ears during flight.. Additionally, when this tube is not opened properly, blockage and discomfort can intensify.
What to do when your ears are blocked to relieve the feeling
Fortunately, there are a few simple methods that can equalize the pressure in the middle ear and reduce discomfort:
- Swallowing, yawning or chewing gum: These actions open the Eustachian tube, helping to equalize the pressure. Chewing gum or sucking candy are easy options to stimulate saliva production and, when swallowing, reduce ear blockage.
- Earplugs with filter: These plugs allow air to enter in a controlled manner, mitigating sudden pressure changes. They are particularly useful during landing and takeoff.
- Valsalva maneuver: consists of shut your mouth and cover your noseblowing gently to allow air to enter the middle ear. This technique is frequently used by divers to equalize pressure.
- Toynbee maneuver: similar to the previous one, but combined with a water intake. Hold your nose while taking sips of water to equalize the pressure.
Additional Tips for Preventing Barotrauma: What Is It?
Barotrauma, or barotraumaEast the physical damage suffered by the tissues of the human body due to a difference in pressure between the air in or around the body and the gas or liquid surrounding it.
To avoid the discomfort of blocked ears, especially in people prone to this condition, certain precautions can be taken before the flight.
- Nasal decongestants: Using a decongestant an hour before takeoff or landing can help prevent blockage by allowing the Eustachian tube to open more easily.
- Avoid flying with a cold or infection: Respiratory infections make it difficult to open the Eustachian tube, increasing the risk of blockage and pain.
Ear care after the flight
If the blockage persists after the flight, it is possible to resort to some measures at home:
- Application of heat: Placing a warm towel in the ear area can help open the Eustachian tube.
- Steam inhalation: Inhaling hot water vapor, even accompanied by a few drops of essential oil, helps release the blockage in the middle ear.
In general, These methods should relieve the pressure. However, if pain or obstruction persists, it is recommended to consult a specialist in otolaryngology to avoid complications such as infection or injury to the eardrum.
Balance of pressure in the middle ear is essential for hearing and overall comfort during changes in altitude. He barotraumaas this condition is called, usually does not present serious risks, but it is annoying and can cause temporary hearing problems if not properly relieved.
