Surely, even if it doesn’t happen to you, you know someone who “suffers from their ears” during flights. Rapid changes in atmospheric pressure can cause discomfort or ear pain when flying. Despite modern planes being pressurized, some people still experience these symptoms, which can be influenced by factors such as aircraft type, takeoff and landing maneuvers, weather conditions, the state of the Eustachian tube or middle ear, as well as individual characteristics. Find out more in this article why ears hurt during flights.
The middle ear has a cube-like structure, made up of five rigid walls due to its bony constitution. The only elastic part is the tympanic membrane. This space is filled with air, which must maintain a pressure equal to that of the atmosphere, allowing the tympanic membrane to vibrate properly when receiving sound waves. These vibrations are then transmitted through the ossicular chain to the cochlea and auditory nerve. To balance the pressure between the inside and outside of the middle ear, there is the Eustachian tube, an osteocartilaginous duct that performs this essential function.
To minimize discomfort, it is recommended to keep your nostrils clean before boarding. If you have a cold, you should blow your nose carefully and, if possible, perform a nasal wash. During the flight, chewing gum vigorously can help, as it activates the palate muscles that open the Eustachian tube. Another option is to drink small sips of water or suck on a piece of candy, keeping your mouth moving, moving forward.
A useful technique for balancing ear pressure when flying is the Valsalva maneuver. This consists of breathing in, closing your mouth and nostrils, and applying pressure as if you were blowing up a balloon. This method forces the Eustachian tube open, allowing the middle ear to fill with air and reducing the impact of pressure changes.
If you experience this discomfort frequently or have problems related to your sinuses, it is advisable to consult an otorhinolaryngologist, who will be able to evaluate the case and propose the most appropriate treatment.
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