✈️ Why Do Your Ears Hurt During Flight Landings?

The Real Reason Behind Airplane Ear Pain

Have you ever felt sharp pain or fullness in your ears during a flight—especially when the plane is landing? You're not alone. This is one of the most common complaints from air travelers, particularly children and those with nasal or sinus issues.

Let’s explore why this happens, who is more prone, and how to prevent and manage it effectively.

🔍 What Causes Ear Pain During Flights?

As the aircraft descends, cabin pressure rises quickly.Your body—specifically your middle ear—needs time to equalize this pressure.

Normally, the Eustachian tube (a narrow canal connecting the middle ear to the back of your nose) opens and allows air to pass through, balancing the pressure.

If this doesn’t happen effectively, pressure builds behind the eardrum, causing:

• Sharp or dull ear pain

• A feeling of blocked or full ears

• Temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing

• Popping or clicking sounds
  

👶 Why Are Children More Affected?

Children have smaller and more horizontal Eustachian tubes, which don’t open as easily—especially during a cold or allergy flare-up.

That’s why infants and toddlers often cry during landing—they’re in real discomfort due to the pressure buildup.

🌬️ Who Is More Prone to Airplane Ear?

People with:

• Nasal congestion or allergies

• Sinusitis

• Colds or respiratory infections

• Enlarged adenoids (in kids)

• Recurrent ear infections

• Chronic nasal block or deviated septum
  

…are more likely to suffer from airplane ear.

✅ Tips to Prevent Ear Pain During Landing

Before Your Flight:

• Use a nasal decongestant spray (under medical advice)

• Avoid flying with a cold or sinus infection if possible

• Stay well-hydrated
  

During Descent:

• Yawn, swallow, or chew gum frequently

• Try the Valsalva maneuver: pinch your nose, close your mouth, and blow gently

• Use EarPlanes™ or pressure-filtering earplugs

• For babies/kids: offer a bottle, pacifier, or sip of water during landing
  

🩺 When to See a Doctor

Consult your ENT specialist if:

• The pain lasts more than a day after flying

• You experience hearing loss, ringing in ears (tinnitus), or dizziness

• There is persistent nasal block or snoring
  

These could indicate:

• Chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction

• Sinus blockages

• Allergic rhinitis or anatomical nasal issues
  

👨‍⚕️ How We Can Help

At our ENT clinics, we treat both children and adults for:

• Silent nasal allergies

• Deviated nasal septum

• Chronic sinus inflammation
  

With treatments like:

• Nasal sprays and anti-allergy meds

• Endoscopic sinus surgery (if needed)

• Preventive care for frequent travelers

…we help you fly pain-free.

📍 Book Your Consultation Today

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Prashanth R. Reddy

ENT & Endoscopic Sinus Surgeon

📍 Dr Prashanth R Reddy | ENT Doctor – Sarjapura Road -

🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Weekdays)

🕐 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM (Saturday)

📍 Dr Prashanth Reddy | ENT Specialist – Koramangala-

🕐 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Monday–Saturday)

🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Sunday)