Why do ears get congested during flights? When you fly, the air pressure change can cause your ears to feel congested or plugged. This is due to the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, becoming blocked. The tube is responsible for regulating air pressure in the ear, but during flight, it can become swollen or clogged, leading to discomfort. Symptoms of congested ears during flights
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears Dull or muffled hearing Ear pain or discomfort Difficulty hearing or understanding speech Vertigo or dizziness
Causes of congested ears during flights
Air pressure changes during takeoff and landing Allergies or colds, which can cause Eustachian tube dysfunction Sinus infections or pressure Earwax buildup Flying with a head cold or sinus issues flying while congested ears
Tips to relieve congested ears during flights
Chew gum or suck on hard candy : This can help stimulate saliva production, which can help open the Eustachian tube and relieve pressure. Yawn or swallow : Repeatedly yawning or swallowing can help open the Eustachian tube and equalize air pressure. Pinch your nose and blow : Pinch your nose shut and blow gently through your nose to help open the Eustachian tube. Use earplugs : Special earplugs designed for flying can help reduce air pressure changes and alleviate congestion. Stay hydrated : Drink plenty of water to thin out mucus and keep your Eustachian tube functioning properly. Use nasal decongestants : Apply a nasal decongestant spray or take a decongestant pill before flying to help reduce nasal congestion. Try the Valsalva maneuver : Before takeoff and landing, try the Valsalva maneuver: Pinch your nose shut, close your mouth, and blow gently through your nose to equalize air pressure.
Pre-flight preparations
Consult your doctor : If you have a cold, sinus infection, or ear issues, consult your doctor before flying. Use saline nasal sprays : Use saline nasal sprays to moisturize your nasal passages and help reduce congestion. Take a decongestant : Consider taking a decongestant before flying to help reduce nasal congestion.
In-flight strategies
Stay awake : Try to stay awake during takeoff and landing to help your ears adjust to air pressure changes. Keep your head elevated : Keep your head elevated during the flight to help reduce congestion. Avoid sleeping : Avoid sleeping during takeoff and landing, as this can make ear congestion worse. Why do ears get congested during flights
Post-flight relief
Chew gum or suck on hard candy : Continue to chew gum or suck on hard candy after landing to help relieve ear pressure. Apply a warm compress : Apply a warm compress to your ears to help relieve discomfort. Take over-the-counter pain relievers : If you experience ear pain, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.