Key takeaways
- Caused by pressure changes.
- Worse with colds and allergies.
- Swallow, yawn and chew.
- Try the gentle Valsalva.
- See a doctor for lasting symptoms.
That uncomfortable "blocked" feeling during landing has a simple explanation, and simple fixes.
Why it happens
As the plane climbs or descends, cabin pressure changes faster than your middle ear can adjust. The Eustachian tube equalizes pressure when it opens, which happens when you swallow or yawn.
Who's at higher risk
| Factor | Why |
|---|---|
| Cold or flu | Swollen Eustachian tubes |
| Allergies or sinus congestion | Blocked airways |
| Young children | Narrower Eustachian tubes |
| Sleeping during descent | Fewer swallows |
8 tips for comfortable ears
- Stay awake during descent
- Swallow, yawn or chew gum
- Suck on a hard candy
- Try the gentle Valsalva maneuver
- Use filtered earplugs designed for flying
- Give babies a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing
- Ask a pharmacist about decongestants before flying if congested
- Consider postponing travel with a bad cold or ear infection
When to see a doctor
- Severe pain
- Fluid or bleeding from the ear
- Hearing loss or ringing that lasts
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
Tinnitrol supports everyday ear health but is not a treatment for airplane ear or ear pressure problems.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic – "Airplane ear."
- American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery – "Ears and altitude (barotrauma)."
- CDC Yellow Book – "Air travel."
Common questions
Why do my ears hurt when flying?
Cabin pressure changes faster than your middle ear can equalize.
How can I prevent airplane ear?
Swallow, yawn, chew gum and stay awake during descent.
When should I see a doctor?
For severe pain, bleeding or symptoms lasting more than a few days.