It is very common to experience ear problems if you travel by plane and while they are usually harmless, their symptoms can sometimes cause serious discomfort. Ear barotrauma (also called ‘airplane ear’) can affect anyone regardless of their age and physical health.
Why Does Ear Barotrauma Occur?
Barotrauma of the ear is caused when there is a blockage in the eustachian tube: a thin, membrane-lined tube that connects the back of the nose and the middle ear and helps keep the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum balanced. Most times, blockages like this occur due to the common cold, but sinus infections and nasal allergies can also trigger them. Symptoms may include:
- Feeling of fullness inside the ear
- Ear pain that may become intense
- Hearing loss
- Vertigo
- Ear discharge (very rare; could indicate a ruptured eardrum)
How Does Airplane Travel Affect Your Ears?
As travelling by airplane often involves rapid changes in air pressure, the Eustachian tube may not always be able to open frequently or widely enough to allow air to reach the middle ear. This causes air pressure to build up behind the ear drum, especially when the aircraft is landing, and the atmospheric pressure goes from low to high very quickly.
The same is valid for other situations that also involve rapid air pressure or altitude changes, like diving or riding an elevator.
What Prevention Options Are Available?
There are various means to prevent ear discomfort during airplane travel, the easiest of which are to swallow, yawn, or chew gum. This can be especially helpful when the plane is taking off or descending.
You can also relieve ear discomfort by pinching your nose, breathing in, blowing gently against your pinched nose, and then swallowing. If you perform the method successfully, you will hear a pop and your ears will feel less clogged up.
Barotrauma prevention is a bit trickier when it comes to babies and young children, as their ears are not yet fully developed, and they can’t pop their ears on purpose. Sucking on a bottle or pacifier can be helpful in these cases.
Experienced air travelers might prefer using OTC decongestant pills or nasal sprays to shrink the membranes and help the ears pop more easily, however these are not recommended for people who are pregnant, suffering from thyroid disease, irregular pulse rhythms, or high blood pressure.
The easiest, most practical, and effective way to relieve ear discomfort while air travelling is by wearing protective earplugs, specially designed to help with symptoms that come with rapid air pressure changes. Have a look at our favorites below:
EarPlanes - Adult
Not only are these brilliant earplugs extremely comfortable, but they are also reusable up to five times! In addition to regulating the air pressure inside the ear, they also naturally reduce harsh noises and are made of soft, latex-free, hypoallergenic silicone. Tested by US Navy Pilots, they are the ideal solution for relieving ear discomfort during air travel. What is more, the EarPlanes come in a small travel case: perfect for carrying in your hand luggage!
EarPlanes - Child
Designed specifically for kids and smaller ears, these comfy earplugs prevent your child’s ears from hurting, popping and clogging thanks to their Exclusive CeramX Filter. Additionally, they reduce noise by 20 decibels when used as directed and are suitable for children aged between 12 months and 10 years. Just like the Adult EarPlanes version, they are made from soft, hypoallergenic, drug-free silicone and come in a handy box for ultimate convenience.
Are you travelling by plane soon and dreading the horrible ear discomfort that comes with it? Worry not, we’ve got you! Click here to have a look at our ear protection range and grab your earplugs today!
