The Effects of Low Barometric Pressure on the Ears

Barometric pressure is the weight the air exerts over a specified area. The pressure varies, depending on a variety of factors such as temperature, the amount of air molecules in the area, how fast they are moving and how frequently they are colliding. Barometric pressure can affect our bodies in many different ways. It can affect our joints, our breathing and even our body's processing of oxygen. Low pressure can have several different effects on our ears.

Loss of Hearing

• Low barometric pressure can temporarily result in a loss of hearing ability. As the pressure on the outside of the body decreases, the pressure on the inside of the body no longer has the resistance that holds it in place. The pressure then presses outward and this is most apparent in the ears. The outward pressure affects the bones in the inner ear and make it more difficult for them to detect the air vibrations that translate into sound. This will remain until the pressure is equalized.

Popping Sound

• The body will try to equalize the pressure inside the body with the pressure outside of the body, which frequently leads to one or more loud popping sounds inside the ear. Ear popping is called barotrauma and is the result of the Eustachian tube opening to alleviate the air pressure. The Eustachian tube is a valve that exists between the throat and inner ear that tries to equalize body pressure. Swallowing or yawning helps to facilitate this process, and the popping sound is the excess air leaving through the Eustachian tube.

Ear Damage

• If the Eustachian tube is unable to equalize the pressure inside the body with the barometric pressure outside, the ear can be damaged as the force of the pressure inside the ear damages the eardrum. A perforation is possible that could result in severe loss of hearing, and surgery could be needed to repair the damage. This is more common if you are suddenly in a low-pressure environment and have a cold or infection. The inflammation and excess moisture in the sinuses and the Eustachian tube make it more difficult for the valve to open and can result in ear damage.