Avoid Ear Pain While Flying

One of the most unfortunate consequences of air travel, aside from cramped quarters and crappy food, is the issue of air pain. A lot of travelers experience this discomfort when flying due to the sudden change in pressure that occurs during take-off and descent. You can help prevent airplane ear with these precautions.

Valsalva Maneuver

The Valsalva maneuver is a technique used by deep-sea divers to deal with the pressure changes underwater and can work in the air as well. When descending or lifting off, gently blow air from your nose while pinching your nostrils and closing your mouth. Repeat this several times and it’ll help equalize pressure in your ears.

Filtered Earplugs

Filtered earplugs are a great way to help relieve ear pressure when flying. They work by equalizing the external ear pressure as it enters and are available at drugstores and most airport gift shops.

Use Your Mouth

One way to prevent airplane ear is to stimulate your Eustachian tubes, which will, in turn, alleviate pressure in your ears. You can do this by swallowing (drinking plenty of water helps), chew on gum or force yourself to yawn a few times on the way up.

Stay Awake

A lot of travelers try to nod off before take-off to make the time go by faster, but sleeping during this period actually means you can’t prevent airplane ear. Instead, wait until the plane is at cruising altitude so you can use the techniques above to reduce the pressure. Otherwise, you’re going to wake up in pain.