Can you go on a flight with ear infection?

Flying with an Ear Infection

_Yes, you can fly with an ear infection, but it is not advisable._ The pressurized air in the cabin of a plane can further strain your eardrums and cause additional pain. Here are some factors to consider and precautions you can take if you must travel by air with an ear infection:

Ear Pressure Changes

- One of the main risks associated with flying with an ear infection is the impact of cabin air pressure changes on the affected ear. These pressure changes can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Risks of Flying

- Flying with an ear infection may make symptoms worse, including severe ear pain, muffled hearing, and balance issues. In extreme cases, it could even lead to a ruptured eardrum.

Earbarotrauma

- Earbarotrauma, the result of significant pressure differences between the cabin and the inner ear, can cause ear damage. This can occur during take-off or landing when pressure changes are most significant.

Risks of Inner Ear Damage

- If the pressure imbalance is extreme, inner ear damage, including damage to the eardrum, may occur, leading to long-term hearing loss or balance problems.

Precautions and Tips

_If you must travel by air with an ear infection, here are some precautions and tips to help reduce discomfort:_

Check with a Doctor

- Consult your doctor before flying to assess your specific condition and if it's safe for you to travel. They may prescribe medication or recommend other strategies.

Decongestants

- Over-the-counter decongestants, like pseudoephedrine, may help reduce congestion in the middle ear and facilitate pressure equalization.

Pain Relief Medication

- Carry over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or paracetamol, to manage ear pain during the flight.

Eustachian Tube Manipulation

- Perform Eustachian tube manipulation by blowing your nose gently while holding your nose closed and your mouth shut to try and clear any blockages.

Chewing, Drinking, and Yawning

- Regular chewing, drinking, and yawning can help open up your sinuses and equalize pressure in the ears.

Avoid Nasal Sprays

- Avoid using nasal decongestant sprays just before or during the flight, as they can have a drying effect and worsen irritation.

Ear Plugs

- Special earplugs designed for air travel can help regulate ear pressure and reduce discomfort during ascent and descent.

Noise Cancellation Headphones

- Noise-canceling headphones can help reduce discomfort by drowning out external noise.

Descent

- Consider keeping your mouth slightly open during descent to help equalize air pressure.

Ear Drops

- If prescribed by your doctor, ear drops may help provide relief and reduce the risk of infection worsening.

Avoid Water Sports

- If experiencing an ear infection, avoid scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water activities involving rapid pressure changes.

Know Your Limits

- If you experience severe pain or discomfort during the flight, seek medical attention after landing.

Remember, the safety and comfort of your flight should be a top priority. If you can postpone travel until after you recover from your ear infection, it's the best and safest option.