How To Avoid Ear Pain During Flight
Ear pain during a flight—especially during takeoff and landing—is usually caused by rapid changes in air pressure that your ears struggle to equalize. Here are proven ways to prevent or reduce ear pain when flying:
🔹 Before the Flight
- Clear Congestion
- Use a decongestant spray (like oxymetazoline) 30–60 minutes before takeoff and landing if you have a cold or allergies.
- Take an oral decongestant (like pseudoephedrine) if your doctor approves it, especially for long flights.
- Stay Hydrated
Dry air can thicken mucus, making it harder to equalize pressure.
🔹 During Takeoff and Landing
- Chew Gum or Suck Candy
Helps stimulate swallowing, which opens the Eustachian tubes (the pressure-equalizing tubes in your ears). - Perform the Valsalva Maneuver
- Close your mouth.
- Pinch your nose shut.
- Gently blow like you’re trying to blow your nose.
This helps push air into the Eustachian tubes.
- Try the Toynbee Maneuver
Swallow while pinching your nose closed—often easier and more comfortable than Valsalva. - Use Earplugs Designed for Flying
Pressure-regulating earplugs (like EarPlanes) slow the rate of pressure change, giving your ears more time to adjust.
🔹 For Infants and Children
- Feed them (breast/bottle) during takeoff/landing.
- Use a pacifier or encourage swallowing.
🔹 If You’re Sick or Congested
- Consider delaying your flight if you have a severe cold or sinus infection. Flying with blocked Eustachian tubes can lead to painful pressure buildup or even barotrauma (ear injury).