Barometric Pressure & Ear Pain

Barometric pressure refers to atmospheric pressure conditions caused by the weight and concentration of the air. While barometric pressure applies to atmospheric events like weather and even affects how liquids and gases interact, humans do not generally notice the changes but for one notable exception: the ear. A delicate instrument, the human ear is very sensitive to atmosphere conditions and is quick to pick up on changes. If the ear isn't given the opportunity to self-correct for these changes, it can cause pain and even permanent damage.

• Ears are very senstive to atmospheric changes

Air Pressure and the Ear

• Ears work by interpreting pressure waves in the air and transmitting them into signals our brains can read. Pressure waves depend on atmospheric density and what kind of air they are traveling through; small changes can make a big difference in how the ear interprets sound. To faithfully process information, the ear keeps constant track of the outside atmospheric pressure. It does this in the inner ear, and must make constant adjustments to keep up with movement and pressure differences.

Eustachian Tube

• The Eustachian tube is the part of the ear that keeps the atmospheric pressure of the inner ear equal with that of the outside air. It is indeed a tube that connects the closed-off part of the inner ear with the sinus system, giving it intermittent access to the outside through the nose and mouth. Moving the jaw or throat opens up the Eustachian tube, giving it a chance to equalize the pressure behind the eardrum.

Changes in Pressure

• Atmospheric pressure can change in many different ways, but the most noticeable way, as far as the ear is concerned, is in elevation. Going up, whether riding in airplanes or moving toward higher, mountainous regions, leads to lower atmospheric pressure, while going down leads to higher pressure. In both cases, the ear must compensate; if the person is moving quickly enough, the ear will not be fast enough and the pressure differences can be felt.

High Pressure and Low Pressure

• When going up, the pressure against the outside of the eardrum lessens. This is not usually problematic (unless going up very fast), but it does lead to a buildup of pressure inside the ear. When the Eustachian tube is opened, this air tends to forcefully evacuate, leading to the classic "pop" of released pressure. Moving down quickly, such as descending in a plane, increases the atmospheric pressure and has the opposite effect. The pressure outside is increased while the pressure inside the ear remains the same, leading to a vacuum-like effect that can continue and cause ear pain until relieved.

Ear Damage

• With increased pressure, the Eustachian tube can collapse under its semi-vacuum, which makes it difficult to open again and relieve the pain of the inner ear. If this condition persists, it can damage the ear itself, rupturing its delicate membranes and in some cases leading to permanent damage.