Ear Pressure Equalization Help

Problems with equalization of ear pressure occur when the air pressure within the inner ear is not equal to the atmospheric air pressure. The inner ear is located behind the ear drum. If the pressure in the inner ear is not equal to the pressure outside the ear drum, it becomes stressed and can become painful.

Equalizing Ear Pressure

• The inner ear is connected to the nasal passages, which open to the outside atmosphere, by the Eustachian tube. Under normal conditions, this tiny tube opens each time a person swallows or yawns, maintaining a balance of the air pressure in the inner ear and outside the body.

  Ear-pressure problems are commonly associated with flying. Air pressure in the cabin of an aircraft changes during the ascent and descent. If the Eustachian tubes are plugged during either phase of the flight, discomfort will occur.

  According to the Baylor College of Medicine, there are several actions that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of ear-pressure problems.

  It is suggested that those who fly swallow frequently, since the Eustachian tubes open with each swallow. Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy promotes swallowing.

  Avoid flying when suffering from a cold or an allergy that manifests itself as nasal congestion. Both will close off the Eustachian tubes.

  During descent those flying can "self-inflate" their ears. This is done by holding the nose closed and blowing. The air may force itself through the Eustachian tubes and increase the pressure in the inner ear. This should not be done if the person flying is suffering from a cold as it might force mucus into the inner ear which could cause an inner-ear infection.

  Those who fly also can take a nasal decongestant two to three hours before the flight. Decongestants constrict blood vessels in nasal passages which may reduce any swelling of the surrounding tissue.

  Frequent fliers who have repeated problems with ear pressure may consider a surgical implant or tube to hold open the Eustachian tube. This procedure, similar to what is performed on children with ear problems, creates an artificial opening to allow the pressure between the inner ear and the outside world to equalize.