For some people, flying can be a scary experience, with the idea of being thousands of feet in the air in a metal tube being particularly daunting.

However, for others, the real struggle comes from the discomfort that can come with flying, specifically with ear pain and clogging. Nobody wants to spend their entire flight in pain, so here are some tips for preventing clogged ears ruining your flying experience.

What Causes Clogged Ears During Flying?

Clogged ears during flying is a common issue affecting many travelers. Understanding why this happens can help in developing a strategy to prevent them from ruining your flight.

The clogging of ears can be attributed to the pressurization inside your ears. When there is a change in air pressure, the Eustachian tube present in our ear balances the pressure by allowing air to enter or exit the middle ear.

During a flight, rapid changes in air pressure can make it difficult for the pressure in the middle ear to equalize. If this occurs, pressure builds up, causing clogging.

Additionally, if you have a cold or sinus infection, your Eustachian tube may already be blocked, which can lead to ear clogging during air travel.

Preventing Clogged Ears During Your Flight

Fortunately, there are many effective methods of preventing clogged ears while traveling by airplane. Here are ten easy techniques.

1. Chew Gum or Suck on Hard Candy

Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy is an effective technique for preventing ear clogging while flying.

The repetitive motion of chewing or sucking and swallowing promotes proper Eustachian tube function and keeps the air pressure in the ear at a healthy level.

2. Yawning or Swallowing

Yawning frequently, swallowing or manipulating the jaw can stimulate the Eustachian tube and help to relieve ear pressure. By doing this, you can help to regulate the pressure in your ears while flying.

3. Use of Earplugs

When flying, the inflow of air outside is continuous and can cause unexpected ear pain. Earplugs act as insulation against external noise and can be used to regulate air input.

In this way, the risk of eardrum damage caused by rapid pressure changes is reduced.

4. Take Decongestants

If you have a cold or sinus infection, you may be especially susceptible to ear clogging during a flight because of blockages in your Eustachian tube.

Taking a decongestant before your flight may help relieve congestion and prevent clogged ears during your flight.

5. Use Nasal Sprays

Saline nasal sprays are effective for moistening the mucus membranes lining the nasal passages and Eustachian tube. By keeping these moist, it becomes easier for them to drain mucus and prevent ear clogging.

Carry a nasal spray with you and use it twenty minutes before boarding the plane and after landing.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water or sucking on ice chips can help to ensure that your body remains hydrated throughout the flight. This is important because dry nasal membranes can lead to clogged ears.

The moist nasal membranes drain better and regulate the pressure in your ear, prevent pain, and ensure that you feel great throughout the flight.

7. Avoid Sleeping on a Plane

Sleeping on a plane is not the best idea if you suffer from ear clogging. By sleeping, you fail to equalize the pressure in your ear regularly, and this could easily lead to ear clogging.

Stay awake and chew gum or suck hard candy every once in a while during the flight.

8. Hold Your Nose and Blow

If your ears feel clogged, hold your nose and blow to alleviate the pressure. This will cause the Eustachian tube to open and release the pressure build-up.

However, you must be careful not to do this too forcefully, as it can cause serious damage to the eardrum.

9. Do Not Fly with a Cold

If you have a cold or sinus infection, you are already vulnerable to ear clogging during a flight. Therefore, it’s best to avoid flying until you’re feeling better and the congestion has cleared up.

10. Consult a Doctor

If you continue to suffer from persistent ear clogging during your flight despite trying various strategies, it’s essential you see a doctor.

Ear pain and clogging could be a sign of an underlying medical condition, and a doctor can prescribe appropriate medication.

Conclusion

Clogged ears can be painful and uncomfortable when traveling by air. However, with a few simple tips and some good old-fashioned prevention, you can mitigate the discomfort before it starts.

Make sure to try out different strategies and see what works best for you and, if all else fails, consult a doctor for advice.