Ear pressure while flying, also referred to as airplane ear or ear barotrauma, occurs when stress is placed on the eardrum during a flight. This condition is caused by a change in air pressure that occurs when the altitude changes. Infants and children are particularly sensitive to ear barotrauma. Self-care treatments are generally effective in treating ear pressure while flying.
Self-care Measures
There are simple steps that ear pressure sufferers can take to reduce or eliminate the effects of ear pressure during a flight. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends chewing gum or sucking on candy. The motion of the mouth of jaw when chewing or sucking forces out extra air in the ears. They also recommend allowing an infant to suck on a bottle or sip from a cup during the flight to relieve pressure. Yawning and gently stretching the jaw can also effectively reduce pressure. The University of Maryland Medical Center also advises patients to avoid sleeping during the descent of a flight. Performing these actions during the descent can prevent prolonged congestion after the flight ends.
Medications
MayoClinic.com recommends taking medications such as a decongestant nasal spray, oral decongestant or an oral antihistamine. These medications all work to increase the functioning of the Eustachian tubes, the parts of the ears that are affected by air pressure while flying. Decongestant nasal sprays, oral decongestants and oral antihistamines can all be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription. It is still important for travelers to get their physician's advice on which medications can best alleviate symptoms, however.
Vasalva Maneuver
MayoClinic.com recommends using the Vasalva maneuver. The Vasalva maneuver is a technique used to open the Eustachian tubes and relieve ear pressure. This is done by holding the nose closed and forcing air in the back of the nose, similar to the sensation of blowing the nose. This should be performed gently and as needed to prevent damaging the ear drum or any of the internal ear tubes.
