The uncomfortable, muffled sensation in your ears after an airplane landing is a common travel issue known medically as or airplane ear . This condition happens when the air pressure in your middle ear and the pressure in the cabin become unequal, pulling or pushing your eardrum out of its natural position.
Most cases of airplane ear resolve within a few hours or by the next morning. However, you should see a doctor if:
The Eustachian tube acts as a pressure valve. When you are on a plane, the air pressure changes rapidly as the plane ascends and descends. If the tube is blocked—perhaps due to a cold, allergies, or sinus issues—it cannot equalize the pressure on both sides of your eardrum.
