That painful pressure in your ears during landing? It's called barotrauma — and it's completely normal. Here's why it happens and how to fix it instantly.
Why It Happens
- 🛬 Cabin pressure changes during descent — air gets trapped in your middle ear
- 👶 Worse for babies — they can't equalize pressure themselves
- 🤧 Much worse with a cold — congested sinuses block the Eustachian tube
5 Instant Fixes
- 🍬 Swallow or chew gum: Opens the Eustachian tube. Start chewing 10 min before landing
- 🥱 Yawn widely: Forces the tube open. Fake a yawn if needed
- 👃 Valsalva technique: Pinch nose shut, close mouth, gently blow. You'll feel a "pop"
- 🍼 For babies: Breastfeed or give a bottle during descent — see baby flying guide
- 💊 Decongestant spray: Use 30 min before landing if you have a cold
⚠️ When to See a Doctor
If ear pain persists for more than 24 hours after landing, or you notice hearing loss or bleeding, see an ENT specialist. Severe barotrauma is rare but needs medical attention.