Blocked Ear After Flying ((new)) (2026)

When a plane changes altitude rapidly (especially during descent), the air pressure in the cabin changes faster than the pressure inside your inner ear. This creates a vacuum that pulls the eardrum inward, stretching it and causing that "plugged" feeling, pain, or muffled hearing. Immediate Fixes: How to "Pop" Your Ears

Pinch your nostrils shut, close your mouth, and gently try to blow air through your nose. Be careful not to blow too hard, as this can damage the eardrum.

If the blockage is caused by mucus or inflammation, you need to loosen things up. blocked ear after flying

In most cases, the blocked sensation clears up within a few hours or a couple of days. However, you should seek medical attention if you experience: Severe, sharp pain. Fluid or blood draining from the ear.

The culprit is the , a narrow passage connecting your middle ear to the back of your nose and throat. Its primary job is to equalize air pressure. When a plane changes altitude rapidly (especially during

Fortunately, there are several solutions and remedies to alleviate blocked ears after flying:

Fortunately, for the vast majority of travelers, treatment is simple, non-invasive, and highly effective. The primary goal is to force the Eustachian tube open to allow pressure equalization. Simple maneuvers are often successful: yawning widely, swallowing repeatedly, or chewing gum can all activate the necessary muscles. If these fail, a more deliberate technique known as the Valsalva maneuver can be employed: pinch the nostrils shut, gently close the mouth, and then attempt to exhale softly through the nose. This forces air up the Eustachian tube, often resulting in a small “pop” and immediate relief. Over-the-counter oral decongestants or nasal sprays, used before descent, can help shrink swollen mucous membranes. In the rare event of persistent fluid or a ruptured eardrum, a visit to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) is warranted, though most cases resolve on their own within a few days. Be careful not to blow too hard, as

To minimize the risk of blocked ears after flying: