Why Do Flights Cause Clogged Ears?
Anyone who has traveled by airplane knows the uncomfortable sensation of ears feeling blocked or 'popping' during takeoff and landing. This common experience, technically called barotrauma, occurs due to rapid changes in air pressure that challenge our body's natural equilibrium.
The primary reason for ear clogging is the difference between external air pressure and the pressure inside your middle ear. As an aircraft ascends or descends, the air pressure changes dramatically, creating a challenge for the Eustachian tubes—small passages connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat.
How Pressure Changes Affect Your Ears
- During ascent, cabin pressure drops, causing the air in your middle ear to expand
- During descent, external pressure increases, potentially creating a vacuum effect
- These pressure differences can cause temporary ear blockage and discomfort
Medical experts recommend several strategies to minimize ear discomfort:
- Yawning or swallowing to help equalize ear pressure
- Using specialized filtered earplugs that regulate pressure
- Staying awake during takeoff and landing to actively manage ear pressure
- Avoiding flying with severe congestion or respiratory infections
For most travelers, ear pressure changes are a temporary and harmless experience. By understanding the science behind this phenomenon and employing simple techniques, you can make your next flight more comfortable and enjoyable.
