How to Clear Your Ears on a Plane

Flying does not have to be painful.

As a plane is climbing or descending, you are going into an area of lesser air pressure. The air pressure inside the plane changes and the pressure in the cavity inside your ear usually changes also. When this does not happen, the air gets trapped in the inner ear, balloons outward and pushes the eustachian tube (the tube connecting the middle ear to the throat) into your throat with a popping sound. This can be extremely uncomfortable. Several things can be done to relieve this pressure and clear your ears.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine
• Earplugs
• Chewing gum
• Candy
• Drinks

Instructions

1. 

   Even kids can be taught to do this.

   Open your mouth widely as if you were yawning and your ears will "pop" as the pressure is equalized. Do this several times.

2. 

   Take these as soon as possible after you board the plane.

   Take an antihistamine such as Sudafed before takeoff or after you enter the plane. Continue taking it every six hours during the flight. The eustachian tube in your throat can get inflamed or swollen when you have a cold or suffer from allergies.

3. 

   Try sugar-free gum, which has fewer empty calories.

   Chew some gum, suck on a candy or have a drink. Try to keep swallowing air, since this will give you some relief.

4. 

   Speak to your pharmacist about what kind to buy.

   Insert earplugs specifically designed for flying. If you usually have problems with your ears while flying, purchase them before the flight. If you do not have earplugs, put both hands over your ears and hold them tightly. The pressure difference and the pain should be lessened.

5. 

References

• TravelWithYourKids: The Ear Thing
• KidsHealth: Flying's Effects on Ears
• Go World Travel: Dealing with Ear-Popping Pressure

Resources

• MedlinePlus: Ear barotrauma