We've all been there - ears clogging and popping as the plane ascends and descends. While it's a common issue, it can be uncomfortable and even painful for some.
Don't worry, though! Here are some tips to avoid aeroplane ears and make your flight more enjoyable and prevent hearing loss. Remember, if you're ever concerned about your ears, seeing a hearing care professional and getting a hearing test is best.
Why do our ears clog on planes?
The main culprit behind clogged ears on planes, also called “aeroplane ears”, is the change in air pressure. As the plane takes off and lands, the air pressure outside your ear decreases and increases, causing your eardrum to push outward and get sucked inward. This pressure change can be too much for the Eustachian tube, leading to discomfort or even painful barotrauma (aeroplane ears).
Five Tips to Prevent Clogged Ears
- Buy filtered earplugs: These handy earplugs protect your ears from loud noises and help equalise external air pressure, reducing discomfort. You can often buy them in the airport gift shop.
- Swallow, yawn, chew, or suck on candy: These actions stimulate the muscles that open the Eustachian tubes, alleviating inner ear pressure.
- Do the Toynbee Manoeuvre (during take-off): Pinch your nose closed and take a few sips of water simultaneously to equalise ear pressure.
- Do the Valsalva Manoeuvre (during landing):Pinch your nose closed and gently blow air through your nose with a closed mouth to pop clogged ears.
- Take a nasal spray for congestion:If you have a cold, using an over-the-counter nasal spray 30 minutes before take-off and landing can help alleviate pressure.