How to Avoid Ear Pain on Airplanes
One of the most frequent problems passengers face during flights is pain in the ears. This is one of the most common pains experienced during flights. It is called sinus pain and it is the irritation that occurs in both ears mainly when the plane takes off and lands. This is because of the pressure applied on the eardrums. You can take proper medication to get rid of this problem. Chewing gum and using the Valsalva technique will also help in relieving the pain. You can also use earplugs to minimize the pain during the ascent and descent of the flight.
Instructions
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1
Take medication
You can take medication beforehand to avoid any pain during the course of the flight. These may include antihistamine, nasal decongestant sprays or oral decongestant. Make sure you take these medications some time before the flight as they take time to affect the body. -
2
Chewing gum
The highest effect of the pain is generally felt when the plane takes flight and when it is landing. You can chew gum during that time period to avoid any pain in the ears. Chewing gum will help in opening the Eustachian tubes. This will decrease any pressure on the ears and you will feel no pain during the flight. -
3
Valsalva technique
The Valsalva technique is one of the most effective techniques to get rid of this problem. You need to close your mouth and hold the nostrils shut with your fingers. Apply pressure on the nose as if you are blowing it. When the air will find no exit passage, as both the nose and mouth are closed, you will feel the air getting out of the ears. This will ease the pain when the plane is flying or landing. -
4
Drink water
Try to drink a considerable amount of water before and during the flight. Drinking a lot of water will keep your body hydrated which helps in decreasing sinus irritation. -
5
Earplugs
One of the most effective ways to prevent pain in the ears is to use filtered earplugs. You can play music throughout the journey to avoid any sinus pain as this will equalize the pressure between the eardrums.
