Blocked Ears on a Plane? Discover the Valsalva Maneuver.

Experiencing blocked ears during a flight is a common phenomenon, caused by a difference in pressure between the inside of the ear and the surrounding environment. The human ear is divided into three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. When the plane takes off or lands, the atmospheric pressure in the surrounding environment changes rapidly, and the middle ear often doesn't have enough time to adjust to this pressure change.

All "blame" goes to the Eustachian Tube.

The Eustachian tube is a small tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. The Eustachian tube opens and closes periodically to allow air to flow in and out of the middle ear, maintaining a balanced pressure. During the ascent of the plane, when the external pressure rapidly decreases, the air inside the middle ear becomes trapped at a higher pressure than the surrounding environment. This causes a sensation of pressure and blockage in the ears. Conversely, during the plane's descent, the external pressure increases rapidly, creating a pressure difference that can once again cause the feeling of blocked ears.

Here are some tips to "unclog" your ears and alleviate the discomfort:

• Perform the Valsalva maneuver: Close your mouth and nose and gently blow through your nose, being careful not to blow too hard. Imagine blowing out a candle without extinguishing it.
• You can try swallowing repeatedly, as if you were swallowing saliva. This movement of the throat can help open the Eustachian tube and reduce the sensation of blocked ears.
• Chewing gum or sucking on candies can be helpful in promoting jaw movement and the surrounding muscles, thus contributing to the opening of the Eustachian tube.
• Try to provoke a yawn, perhaps by thinking of something sleepy or watching a video or photo that makes you feel drowsy. Yawning helps to open the Eustachian tube and equalize the pressure.

These are some useful tips, but be aware that these techniques may not be sufficient for everyone. Additionally, in the case of a cold, the sensation of blocked ears can be even more intense and bothersome.

During a cold, the upper respiratory tract, including the nasal mucosa and airways, is congested, which can interfere with the Eustachian tube's ability to open properly and regulate the pressure in the middle ear. The flow of air is also obstructed by swollen and irritated mucous membranes. The combination of a cold and air pressure during the flight can lead to a feeling of increased blockage or pressure in the ears.

What to do if you have a cold and need to take a flight?

In general, if you have a cold before a flight, it's essential to take additional precautions and try to alleviate nasal congestion before departure. Keep in mind that the sensation of blocked ears can vary from person to person, and some individuals may be more sensitive than others during the flight.

Nasal decongestants can help reduce inflammation and congestion in the airways, facilitating the equalization of ear pressure. Nasal washes with hypertonic solutions can also help with a stuffy nose. During the flight, perform the Valsalva maneuver with caution and gentleness. Avoid blowing too hard, as it may damage the eardrum. Even though congestion may make these techniques less effective, it is still helpful to try them.