Q My ears feel blocked and painful on airplanes. Is this related to otitis media?
A When the eustachian tube cannot adjust to pressure changes, pressure builds up in the middle ear, causing pain and effusion. If you have otitis media, you need to manage it before flying.
Detailed Answer
Barotraumatic (Aero-otitis) Media
When pressure changes during takeoff and landing cause the eustachian tube to close suddenly, a pressure difference develops across the eardrum, which can cause pain, a blocked sensation, and even bleeding. Symptoms are more severe if your eustachian tube function is already weak or if you have rhinitis.
Prevention
- During takeoff and landing, chew gum, yawn, or use the Valsalva maneuver (pinch the nose and gently blow air toward the ears) to encourage the eustachian tube to open.
- Use a nasal decongestant spray before the flight to reduce swelling at the eustachian tube opening.
- If possible, postpone flying during the acute phase of otitis media.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
If eustachian tube function is strengthened in advance through clearing the Lung and transforming phlegm (cheongpye-hwadam), the tube adjusts well even to pressure changes. The same principle applies to diving and scuba diving.
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