Happy Eustachian tubes, happy traveler!
If you suffer from earaches while flying, try these tricks:
- A half hour to 45 minutes before takeoff, take an antihistamine or decongestant.
- Just before takeoff, “pop” your ears by holding your nose shut, closing your mouth, and attempting to blow air through your nostrils. This helps to clear your Eustachian tubes, which can become swollen and blocked when cabin pressure changes.
- While in flight you should swallow frequently, chew gum or candy, and “pop” your ears when the pressure builds.
It’s especially important to take these precautions if you feel a cold coming on — if the tubes are blocked, fluids can become trapped, causing painful ear infections.
PHOTO CREDIT: EAR BY HELMUT GEVERT VIA STOCK.XCHNG
