Natural remedies to prevent in-flight ear pain
Most people experience some sort of ear pain during air travel but there’s no need to suffer through muted, muffled hearing though. Here are several natural technique to help relieve the discomfort and pain.
Yawn
Force yourself to yawn to open up the Eustachian tube in your ears. Clearing the Eustachian tube equalises the pressure in the middle ear with the outside pressure.
Water
Drinking plenty of water will encourage you to swallow more frequently, which helps clear the Eustachian tubes.
Chew gum or suck on a hard lolly
Both these help you swallow more.
Valsalva manoeuvre
Sounds complicated but it’s just the official name for the technique of pinching your nostrils shut, closing your mouth and trying to blow air out of your nose. Repeat as needed. The pressure will help clear your ears but be warned, doing this technique too often can slightly lower your blood pressure.
Frenzel manoeuvre
For a gentler alternative to the Valsalva manoeuvre try the Frenzel manoeuvre. Pinch nostrils and make a guttural “guh” or “kuh” sound. Repeat as needed.
Toynbee manoeuvre
A simple technique that kids can easily do. Pinch nose shut while swallowing.
Steam ears
If none of the above work, try this home remedy. Ask your flight attendant for a foam cup, a paper napkin and a second cup of hot water. Ball up the napkin and soak in hot water. Hold wet, balled up napkin near one ear, using the other cup to catch excess liquid. The steam from the wet paper helps relieve the pressure in your ear and to soothe the pain.
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