Ear Blocked After a Flight: How to Relieve Airplane Ear?

Dr. K. R. Meghanadh

Many people experience ear blockage after a flight. This happens because of sudden changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing, which affect the middle ear.

Ear blockage after a flight is caused by pressure changes affecting the middle ear.

In most cases, the ear feels blocked, muffled, or full for some time after landing. This condition is commonly called airplane ear (ear barotrauma).

The good news is that ear blockage after flying is very common and usually settles on its own within a few hours.

Why Do Ears Feel Blocked After a Flight?

Inside the ear is a small passage called the Eustachian tube. It connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalise air pressure.

During a flight, cabin pressure changes quickly. If the Eustachian tube does not open properly, pressure builds up in the middle ear, causing:

• A blocked or clogged ear sensation

• Muffled hearing

• Ear discomfort or mild pain

Once the pressure equalises, the ear usually returns to normal.

What to Do Immediately if Your Ear Feels Blocked After a Flight

If your ear feels blocked after landing, try these simple steps to help equalise the pressure.

Note: These 4 steps can be used during and after a flight to get ear block relief.

1. Swallow Frequently

   Swallowing helps open the Eustachian tube, allowing the pressure in the middle ear to balance.

   You can try:

   • Sipping water and swallowing often

   • Drinking small amounts of liquid repeatedly

   Frequent swallowing helps clear the blockage faster.

   
   

2. Yawn (Even If Forced)

   Yawning activates the muscles that help open the Eustachian tube.

   Even a forced yawn can sometimes help relieve ear pressure.

   
   

3. Chew Gum or Suck on Candy

   Chewing or sucking increases saliva production and swallowing, which helps open the tube.

   You can try:

   • Chewing gum

   • Sucking on candy

   • Eating something that requires chewing

   This often helps the ears pop naturally.

   
   

4. Try a Gentle Valsalva Maneuver

If the ear still feels blocked, you can try a gentle Valsalva maneuver.

Steps:

• Close your mouth

• Pinch your nose

• Gently blow air through your nose

Do not blow forcefully.

If you hear or feel a small pop, it usually means the ear pressure has equalised.

How Long Does Ear Blockage Last After a Flight?

For most people, ear blockage clears within a few minutes to a few hours after landing. However, sometimes the pressure takes longer to equalise.

What to Do if the Ear Still Feels Blocked After 2 Hours

If your ear still feels blocked after a couple of hours, you can try the following steps.

Step 1: Use Nasal Decongestant Drops

Use xylometazoline or oxymetazoline nasal drops as directed.

These medicines help reduce nasal swelling, which allows the Eustachian tube to open more easily.

Step 2: Perform Steam Inhalation

After about 5 minutes, perform steam inhalation.

Steam helps:

• Reduce nasal congestion

• Improve Eustachian tube function

• Relieve ear pressure

You can repeat these two steps every 6 hours until the blockage clears.

However, do not use nasal decongestant drops for more than 2 days, as overuse can worsen nasal congestion.

When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

Consult an ENT specialist if:

• Ear blockage or pain lasts more than 2 days

• You experience severe ear pain

• Hearing remains muffled

• There is ear discharge or dizziness

Persistent blockage may indicate middle ear fluid buildup or ear barotrauma that requires medical attention.

Dr. K. R. Meghanadh