Ear Pain During Flying

Pressure, pain, hearing loss, and dizziness can occur from barotrauma from flying or deep-sea diving.  This occurs from eustachian tube dysfunction or blockage such as from a cold, allergies or sinus infection. 

How to Get Rid of Ear Pain During Flying

Here are ways to help open up the Eustachian tube during a flight

1. Swallowing,
2. Chewing gum
3. Yawning
4. Pinching your nose and blowing 

If any of these methods works you will feel a pop, and your ears feel less clogged. Over-the-counter nasal sprays or decongestants can also help air travelers (if pregnant, or have heart disease, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, thyroid disease, or excessive nervousness, consult your physician before using these medications).  The use of decongestant nasal sprays for more than a few days can cause problems.  If your ears do not open, or if you have pain in your ears, see Dr. Goldfarb.