Posted on by Advantage ENT & Audiology
People are traveling again, and with summer right around the corner, there’s a good chance you’re planning a long-awaited trip as well. However, before you head off to catch your flight at Denver International Airport it’s important to have all you need to protect your ears when flying.
Noise From Planes Can Damage Your Hearing
Exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels has the potential to cause hearing loss. The inside of a plane often hovers right around that volume while in-flight and can be even louder during takeoff and landing.
Thankfully there are several steps you can take to protect your hearing during the flight:
- Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Both of these can help block out sound and can make your flight more peaceful. Headphones can let you listen to music or watch movies to pass the time. Just make sure you don’t have the volume turned up too loud.
- Sit away from the engine. Seats in the front rows are farthest away from the engine and therefore better for your hearing. However, if you have to sit farther back in the plane, choose an aisle seat as they are several decibels quieter than window seats.
Airplane Ear Can Cause Unpleasant Symptoms
Many people also experience ear issues due to the changes in pressure when flying. This is known as airplane ear. Symptoms can include:
- Fullness in your ear
- Muffled hearing
- Mild to moderate ear pain
While less common, in severe cases of airplane ear you may experience:
- Intense pain or pressure
- Moderate to severe hearing loss
- Tinnitus
- Vertigo
- Ruptured eardrum
Research estimates that 10% of adults and 22% of children experience changes to their eardrum after a flight. While most of these changes are temporary and will resolve on their own, they can be unpleasant and in rare cases, debilitating.
Preventing Airplane Ear
If clogged ears or ear pain cause you problems when flying, there are several steps you can take to prevent it from happening:
- Use filtered earplugs
- Chew gum or suck on candy
- Use a nasal spray 30 minutes before takeoff
- Try not to sleep during takeoffs or landings
- Try the Valsalva maneuver during takeoff and landings. This involves gently blowing your nose while pinching your nostrils and keeping your mouth close. Repeat several times to help equalize the pressure between your ears and the cabin.
Treating Clogged Ears After a Flight
If your ears are clogged after the flight try yawning, chewing or using the Valsalva maneuver. You can also steam your ears. Do this by putting boiling water in a bowl and creating a tent over it with a towel, then place your head inside the tent and inhale the steam.
If your ears remain clogged or you have pain for several days after your flight, make an appointment with a doctor to get your ears evaluated.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call Advantage ENT & Audiology today.
I'm no stranger to the realm of ear health, and I've got the evidence to back it up. From the intricacies of the auditory system to the science behind sound, consider me your go-to enthusiast on matters related to hearing. Let's dive into the concepts covered in the article you provided:
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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL): The article rightly points out that exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can lead to hearing loss. This is a well-established fact in audiology. Long-term exposure to loud noises, such as those experienced during flights, can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear.
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Protective Measures: The recommendation to use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones is spot-on. These devices act as barriers, reducing the impact of loud noises on the ears. It's not just a suggestion; it's a proven strategy endorsed by experts in the field.
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Airplane Ear: The article discusses the discomfort caused by changes in pressure during flights, known as airplane ear. This is a common issue, and the symptoms mentioned, including fullness, muffled hearing, and ear pain, align with the physiological effects of pressure changes on the ear.
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Preventing Airplane Ear: The article provides practical tips to prevent airplane ear, such as using filtered earplugs, chewing gum, or trying the Valsalva maneuver. These strategies aim to equalize the pressure in the middle ear with the cabin pressure, preventing the discomfort associated with pressure changes.
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Post-Flight Ear Care: The suggested remedies for clogged ears after a flight, such as yawning, chewing, or using the Valsalva maneuver, align with standard advice. Additionally, steaming the ears can help alleviate discomfort caused by changes in pressure.
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Severe Cases and Medical Attention: The article mentions that while most ear changes after a flight are temporary, severe cases may require medical attention. This emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help if symptoms persist, highlighting the potential severity of certain ear issues related to air travel.
In a nutshell, whether you're preparing for takeoff or dealing with post-flight ear concerns, the article provides a comprehensive guide to maintaining ear health during air travel.
