That sharp ear pain during landing? It's called aeroplane ear (barotrauma) and it affects nearly half of all passengers. Here's how to prevent and treat it.
Why It Happens
As the plane descends, cabin pressure increases rapidly. Your Eustachian tube (connecting middle ear to throat) can't equalize fast enough — creating painful pressure on the eardrum.
7 Proven Remedies
- 🍬 Chew gum: Start chewing during descent — jaw movement opens the Eustachian tube
- 💧 Swallow repeatedly: Drink water in small sips during takeoff and landing
- 🤧 Valsalva maneuver: Pinch nose, close mouth, gently blow — you'll feel a "pop"
- 🍼 For babies: Breastfeed or give a bottle during descent — sucking opens tubes
- 💊 Nasal decongestant: Use 30 min before landing if you have a cold
- 👂 EarPlanes plugs: Special pressure-regulating ear plugs (₹300-₹500)
- 😴 Stay awake during landing: You can't swallow while sleeping
When to See a Doctor
- 🚨 Pain lasts more than 24 hours after landing
- 🚨 Hearing loss or ringing (tinnitus) continues
- 🚨 Fluid or blood from the ear
- ❌ Don't fly with ear infection: Risk of eardrum rupture — reschedule