When Pressure Hurts Your Ears
Specialized care for ear pain and pressure caused by rapid environmental changes.
Why Do Your Ears Hurt During a Flight?
Ear pain, pressure, or fullness during or after flying is common. Rapid altitude changes can make it difficult for the Eustachian tube to equalize middle ear pressure. Swallowing, yawning, or the Valsalva maneuver can help, but Eustachian tube dysfunction may interfere with this process.
When Pressure Causes Ear Injury
Barotrauma occurs when differences in pressure cause physical injury. In the ear, it may cause mild discomfort and temporary hearing loss or more significant problems such as middle ear fluid, bleeding around the eardrum, or, in severe cases, an eardrum perforation. Scuba diving presents a greater risk than air travel because pressure changes are faster and more pronounced.
Common Signs of Ear Barotrauma
Ear pain or pressure during or after flying or diving.
Muffled hearing following an altitude change.
Ear fullness that continues after landing.
Tinnitus
Dizziness in more severe cases.
Managing Ear Pressure and Barotrauma
Mild barotrauma usually improves on its own within hours to days. Nasal decongestants and nasal steroid sprays may provide relief. Ongoing symptoms, particularly hearing loss, dizziness, or ear drainage, should be evaluated. When recurrent barotrauma is related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, treating the underlying ETD may help, including Eustachian tube balloon dilation for appropriate patients.