Air Pressure
During air travel, the pressurized air inside the plane can trigger earache due to pressure changes. Most young children are sensitive to changes. Thus, many of them cry during take-off and descent. Medical practitioners call the condition airplane ear or ear barotrauma. The same problem can happen when going down in an express elevator or scuba diving. Often, the situation settles immediately. However, if the pain continues, it is better to see a healthcare provider.
The ears help keep the pressure equal in the eardrums. However, fast changes can offset the balance, and the ears get hurt. One side effect is temporary difficulty in hearing. Adults traveling by plane can prevent earache by sucking on hard candy, swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum when the plane takes off or descends. Another thing to do is to remain awake when the plane starts its descent. Some people take deep breaths. Others pinch their nostrils and blow the air gently from their nose. If possible, people should refrain from diving or flying when they have some allergy symptoms, a sinus infection, or a cold.
