These can indicate a ruptured eardrum, middle ear effusion, or infection—all treatable but requiring professional care.
If you’re congested before flying, consider delaying your trip if possible. Flying with a blocked nose increases the risk of severe barotrauma and even a “locked ear” that can take weeks to resolve. If you must fly, use a saline spray, a decongestant, and nasal corticosteroid (like flonase) starting 2–3 days before your flight. ear pain after flying remedy
Open your mouth as wide as possible and push your jaw forward. The exaggerated motion stretches the muscles around the Eustachian tube, encouraging it to open. These can indicate a ruptured eardrum, middle ear