Flying can be thrilling, but the pressure changes that occur when the plane ascends and descends can lead to discomfort, especially in your ears.

If you've ever experienced the feeling of your ears being blocked or popping repeatedly, you're not alone. It's a common issue for many travelers. Fortunately, there are simple techniques you can use to alleviate ear pressure and make your flight more comfortable.

1. Understand the Science Behind Ear Pressure

To effectively deal with ear pressure, it's important to first understand what's happening inside your body. The feeling of fullness or discomfort in your ears during a flight is caused by changes in air pressure as the airplane ascends and descends.

• Why It Happens: Your ears have a small tube called the Eustachian tube that helps balance the pressure between the inside of your ear and the outside world. When the plane climbs or descends, the pressure outside changes, and your body needs time to adjust. If the Eustachian tube doesn't open properly, it can lead to ear pain, a sense of fullness, or muffled hearing.

The good news is that there are ways to encourage your Eustachian tube to open, allowing pressure to equalize and reducing discomfort.

2. Yawn and Swallow Regularly

One of the simplest and most effective ways to relieve ear pressure during flight is by yawning or swallowing frequently. Both of these actions help open the Eustachian tube, allowing pressure to equalize.

• Tip: Keep sipping water throughout the flight or enjoy a hard candy. The act of swallowing helps to maintain the pressure balance in your ears. You can also try yawning intentionally to open your Eustachian tube. If you feel discomfort, don't be afraid to exaggerate your yawns—it can work wonders.

3. Use the Valsalva Maneuver

The Valsalva maneuver is named after the anatomist Antonio Maria Valsalva (1666–1723), who first described the technique in his work, A Tract on the Human Ear, which was published in 1704. The Valsalva maneuver is a technique that involves gently blowing air out of your nose while keeping your mouth closed and pinching your nostrils shut. This maneuver forces air into the Eustachian tube and can help equalize pressure.

• How to Do It: Close your mouth, pinch your nostrils shut, and gently exhale. Avoid blowing too hard, as it can damage your ears. Repeat this as needed, especially during ascent and descent. The Valsalva maneuver can be especially helpful if you're feeling significant ear discomfort during the flight.

4. Use Earplugs Designed for Air Travel

Special earplugs designed for air travel are available and can make a significant difference in minimizing ear pressure. These earplugs are engineered to slow down the pressure change, which gives your ears more time to adjust.

• Tip: Look for earplugs that are specifically designed to regulate air pressure. They don't block out sound entirely but rather filter the air pressure changes, providing a more gradual transition. Some people find these helpful during takeoff and landing, the two most common times when ear pressure can cause discomfort.

5. Chew Gum or Lick on Hard Candy

Chewing gum or licking on hard candy can help keep your mouth and throat engaged in a constant swallowing motion, which aids in equalizing the pressure in your ears.

• Tip: Opt for sugar-free gum or candy, as sugar can cause a dry mouth during long flights. Chewing gum also helps keep you hydrated, preventing a dry throat, especially if you're traveling in an air-conditioned cabin for an extended period.

6. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Dehydrating Substances

Dehydration can make the Eustachian tube more sluggish and less responsive to pressure changes. Keeping hydrated during your flight is an easy but effective way to reduce ear discomfort.

• Tip: Drink plenty of water throughout your flight. Avoid caffeine, as both can dehydrate you, which can exacerbate the discomfort caused by ear pressure. Keep a water bottle with you and sip frequently to maintain hydration.

7. Avoid Sleeping During Descent

If you tend to fall asleep during the descent, you may miss the opportunity to perform actions that can help equalize the pressure, such as yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum.

• Tip: Stay awake during the descent, especially in the last 30 minutes of the flight, so that you can actively work on managing the pressure in your ears. It's important to be aware of the changes in pressure and take steps to alleviate discomfort before it becomes more severe.

8. Use a Warm Compress

If you're already feeling discomfort from ear pressure, applying a warm compress to the affected ear can help alleviate the pain. The warmth helps relax the muscles around your ear, easing the pressure.

• How to Do It: Simply moisten a washcloth with warm water and apply it gently to your ear for 10 to 15 minutes. This can provide immediate relief and help reduce the sensation of fullness.

9. Protect Your Ears if You're Already Sick

If you have a cold, sinus infection, or allergies before your flight, you may be more prone to ear discomfort. Congestion makes it harder for your Eustachian tube to open and equalize pressure, leading to greater discomfort.

• Tip: If possible, delay your flight until you feel better, or use a nasal spray or decongestant before flying to reduce the effects of congestion. When flying while sick, it's even more important to stay hydrated and avoid sleeping during the descent.

Conclusion: Comfort Is Just a Few Steps Away

Ear pressure doesn't have to ruin your flight experience. By understanding how pressure changes affect your body and following simple techniques like swallowing, yawning, or using earplugs, you can significantly reduce discomfort. Remember to stay hydrated, stay alert during takeoff and landing, and give your ears time to adjust. Next time you fly, keep these tips in mind for a smoother, more comfortable journey—your ears will thank you!