 Do
Your Ears Pop?
Do your ears pop when you're flying on an airplane? If the answer
is yes, then you are not alone. Also known as barotrauma or barotitus
media, the sensation of ears popping is a common phenomenom among
airplane travelers.
Why Does it Happen?
Any time there are changes in air pressure, such as riding in an
airplane, or driving up a steep hill, the middle ear works to equalize
the change of air pressure in the ears.
There is a difference of air pressure on either side of the ear
drum in the eustachian tube, which leads to the middle ear. Because
air pressure is vulnerable to changes, the middle ear and eustachian
tube cause the ears to feel pressure. The popping sensation is caused
when air pressure is equalized in the ears.
What You Can Do
- Try Swallowing. Swallowing forces the eustachian tube
to open and forces your ears to pop.
- Chew gum. The motion of chewing encourages swallowing,
which allows the eustacian tube to open and release air pressure.
- Yawning. Although it's an involuntary action, yawning
causes your ears to pop.
- Take a nasal decongestant. Nasal decongestants shrink
mucus membranes in the nose and ears and allow ears to pop more
easily. Nasal decongestants aren't for everybody. If you have
certain health problems, consult your doctor before taking them.
- Give your baby a pacifier or bottle. Babies are unable
to pop their ears on their own. Sucking on a pacifier or bottle
allows babies to swallow and may help relieve pressure in their
ears. Consult your baby's pediatrician before flying to make sure
it's safe.
Things to Avoid
- To avoid damage to the inner ear and ear drum do not force your
ears to pop.
- Flying with a cold, sinus infection or allergies can cause extra
pressure in your ears and make flying painful. If you can postpone
your airplane trip, it's best to do so until you're feeling better,
or consult your doctor about taking decongestants before your
flight.
- If you recently had ear surgery, consult with your surgeon about
how soon you may be able to fly.
- Avoid sleeping during take-off. You may not be swallowing enough
to adjust the pressure changes in your ears.
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