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Barometric Pressure & Yawning

As air pressure, or barometric pressure, changes, the middle ear attempts to equalize the air pressure inside and outside the ear. Yawning causes the ears to "pop," equalizing the pressure in the ears.

  1. Equalized Pressure

    • Air pressure in the middle ear should be the same as the air pressure outside the ear. Barotrauma is caused from the blockage in the Eustachian tube, causing damage to the ear drum.

    Unequal Pressure

    • Going from low to high pressure is more difficult on the Eustachian tube, and yawning may occur more frequently. If the pressure does not equalize, try yawning more frequently and deeply so no damage is done to the eardrum.

    Ascent and Descent

    • During an ascent, when going from high to low pressure, the barometric pressure on the outside of the tube decreases. The barometric pressure behind the eardrum is lower in a descent.

    Opening the Tube

    • As you yawn or swallow, the Eustachian tube opens, equalizing the pressure. Fluid in the ear fills the space behind the Eustachian tube and can prevent equalization, even by yawning. Yawning is the best way to equalize the barometric pressure.

    Barotrauma

    • The middle ear pressure should be the same as the air pressure outside the ear. Barotrauma is caused from the a blockage in the Eustachian tube, causing damage to the ear drum.

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