Many people experience a feeling of pressure or crackling in the ear during airplane takeoff or landing, and this discomfort can sometimes turn into severe pain, especially during flights or sea diving during the summer.
The reason? Simply put, it’s the change in cabin air pressure. Dr. Michael Spiksaver, an ear and throat specialist, explains in a TikTok clip that the eardrums are affected by rapid pressure changes, leading to a familiar “popping” sensation in the ear after takeoff or diving.
Spiksaver explains that this is due to a tube known as the Eustachian tube, which connects the nose to the inner ear and stabilizes the pressure inside the ear. This pressure can be self-adjusted in simple ways such as:
- Swallowing or yawning.
- Close your nose and blow gently into it (known as the Valsalva maneuver).
However, he cautions against opening the mouth too wide, as it can lead to undesirable results.
When is it worrisome?
If these methods don’t work, you may have what’s known as Eustachian tube dysfunction, which is usually caused by colds, allergies, or nasal congestion, where the tube closes and prevents pressure equalization.
How do you prepare before traveling?
To reduce the risk of pain and discomfort while flying, Dr. Specsafer recommends these preventative steps:
- Inhale eucalyptus oil vapor: Put a little in boiling water and inhale the vapor, which helps open the nasal passages and Eustachian tube.
- Steroid nasal sprays: For a longer lasting effect, it is best to start using them 3 to 4 days before the flight, placing one spray in each nostril twice a day.
If the issue persists despite all these steps, it is best to see an ENT specialist for an accurate assessment.
