While going on a plane is exciting for a holiday adventure, it can be uncomfortable and a shock when our ears pop during a flight – a doctor has detailed how to help this
Jetting off on holiday is thrilling, but the journey can sometimes be a bit of a grind. You have got to pack your bags, rock up to the airport early, track down your gate, and if you’re not a fan of flying, settle those last-minute jitters. Then, just as the aircraft lifts off, many of us end up with blocked ears, which isn’t exactly pleasant when you’re thousands of feet above ground.
The climb or descent of the plane and the resulting changes in cabin air pressure can lead to an unpleasant sensation in your ears. While you’re gazing out at the fluffy clouds and expansive blue, you might be curious about the cause behind this discomfort.
Specsavers has explained: “Stress is put on the eardrum as a result of high-pressure environments and it is usually caused by rapid changes in altitude. You’ll recognise it if you’ve ever felt your ears ‘pop’ after a flight or going diving.”
Now, one doctor has delved into the reasons behind why our ears feel blocked on a flight and how we can alleviate the issue. Doctor Michael, a popular health guru on TikTok with a following of half a million, reassures that the common ear-popping experience should not cause alarm.
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Using a diagram to illustrate, he points out the eustachian tube [between your nose and ear and goes across your cheek], explaining: “It is caused by this tube that connects the back of your nose with the inner ear.”
He elaborated: “When you’re flying, you probably hear your ears popping and that’s this tube kind of equalising the pressure of your inner ear. You can do it yourself by swallowing or holding your nose and breathing against it.”
Dr Michael also suggested opening your mouth really wide. If these techniques don’t work – or if they exacerbate the problem – it’s likely you’re dealing with something called eustachian tube dysfunction.
He explained: “It happens when you’ve had a cough or a cold or you’re really congested here and that eustachian tube just closes over.”
The medical expert advised that if this often occurs while you’re flying, there are preventative measures you can take before boarding a plane to avoid this issue.
Dr Michael recommended using eucalyptus oil. He said: “Put it in some boiling water and let the steam go up into your nose and open up this sensation tube.
“Or if you want something a bit more long lasting, a couple of days before your fly, you should start using a steroid nose spray. I would do a spray in each nostril twice a day, about three or four days before you fly.”
If you’ve tried all these methods and none have worked, Dr Michael suggests it’s time to consult an ears, nose and throat specialist.
For more information see the NHS website/app or consult your GP.
Do your ears suffer when you go on a plane? Comment below…