Why Do My Ears Hurt On Airplanes Landing Pressure Equalization Tips

Many travelers experience ear pain during airplane descent, especially in the final stages of landing. The discomfort ranges from mild pressure to sharp, stabbing pain—and for some, it can linger long after the plane has touched down. This common issue stems from rapid changes in air pressure and the body’s struggle to equalize it. While occasional ear discomfort is normal, understanding the science behind it and applying proven techniques can make flying significantly more comfortable. This guide explains exactly why your ears hurt during landing, how the Eustachian tube functions under pressure, and provides practical, medically supported strategies to prevent and relieve pain.

The Science Behind Ear Pain During Descent

During an airplane’s descent, cabin pressure increases as the aircraft moves from high altitude to ground level. While modern planes are pressurized, the rate of pressure change still affects the delicate balance within your middle ear. The middle ear is an air-filled cavity separated from the outside world by the eardrum. On its inner side, a small canal called the Eustachian tube connects to the back of the nose and throat. Its primary function is to regulate air pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

When the plane descends, external pressure rises quickly. If the Eustachian tube fails to open and allow air into the middle ear, a pressure imbalance occurs. This causes the eardrum to bulge inward, leading to pain, muffled hearing, and sometimes dizziness. Children are especially prone to this because their Eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and more horizontal than adults’, making them less efficient at equalizing pressure.

Tip: Yawning or swallowing frequently during descent helps activate muscles that open the Eustachian tube, reducing pressure buildup.

Common Triggers That Worsen Ear Pressure

While pressure changes affect everyone, certain conditions make ear pain more likely or severe. Recognizing these risk factors allows you to prepare ahead of time.

• Colds or sinus infections: Inflammation narrows the Eustachian tube, impairing its ability to open.
• Allergies: Histamine responses cause swelling in nasal passages and the throat, restricting airflow to the middle ear.
• Blocked nasal passages: Congestion from pollution, dry air, or illness physically obstructs the tube’s opening.
• Sleeping during descent: Swallowing decreases while asleep, limiting natural pressure relief.
• Previous ear issues: History of ear infections or surgery may reduce Eustachian tube efficiency.

A study published in the Journal of Laryngology & Otology found that over 10% of adult flyers report moderate to severe ear pain during landing, with incidence rising to nearly 30% in children under seven.

“Flying with an upper respiratory infection significantly increases the risk of barotrauma—the injury caused by pressure differences in the ear.” — Dr. Alan Rosen, Otolaryngologist and Aviation Medicine Specialist

Effective Pressure Equalization Techniques

Equalizing ear pressure isn’t just about comfort—it prevents temporary hearing loss and, in rare cases, eardrum rupture. The key is actively engaging the muscles that open the Eustachian tube before discomfort sets in. Begin using these methods early in descent, typically when the seatbelt sign illuminates.

1. The Valsalva Maneuver

This is the most widely recommended technique. Pinch your nostrils closed, close your mouth, and gently blow as if trying to exhale through your nose. You should feel a slight pop in your ears as pressure equalizes.

Tip: Blow gently—forceful pressure can damage the eardrum or push fluid into the middle ear.

2. Toynbee Maneuver

Swallow while pinching your nose shut. This combines the natural act of swallowing with controlled pressure, helping open the Eustachian tube effectively.

3. Jaw Movement and Chewing

Moving your jaw side-to-side or chewing gum stimulates the muscles connected to the Eustachian tube. Sucking on hard candy or using a pacifier (for infants) produces the same effect through repeated swallowing.

4. Frenzel Maneuver (Advanced)

Used by divers and frequent flyers, this involves closing the nose and vocal cords while making a “k” sound. It’s more precise than Valsalva and safer for those with sensitive ears.

5. Nasal Decongestants and Sprays

Using a decongestant spray (like oxymetazoline) 30 minutes before descent reduces swelling in nasal passages, improving airflow to the Eustachian tube. Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine can also help but may not be suitable for people with heart conditions or hypertension.

Technique	Best For	When to Use	Caution
Valsalva Maneuver	Adults, healthy individuals	Early descent, every few minutes	Avoid if you have a cold; don’t blow too hard
Toynbee Maneuver	Children, sensitive ears	Continuous use during descent	Safe for most, including during illness
Chewing Gum	Passengers who prefer passive methods	Start before descent begins	Not suitable for infants or choking risk
Nasal Spray	Those with congestion or allergies	30 min before descent	Limited to 3 days to avoid rebound congestion
Frenzel Maneuver	Experienced users, divers	Controlled equalization needs	Requires practice; not beginner-friendly

Step-by-Step Guide: Preventing Ear Pain During Landing

Follow this timeline to proactively manage ear pressure and avoid pain:

1. 24 Hours Before Flight: If you have allergies or mild congestion, begin taking a non-drowsy antihistamine or oral decongestant (if medically appropriate).
2. 1 Hour Before Landing: Stay awake. Set an alarm if needed. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate and worsen congestion.
3. 30 Minutes Before Descent: Use a nasal decongestant spray. Do not overuse—limit to three consecutive days.
4. Start of Descent: Begin chewing gum, sucking on candy, or performing gentle jaw movements. Initiate the Valsalva maneuver every 30 seconds until ears feel balanced.
5. Mid-Descent: Continue swallowing and repeating equalization techniques. If one method fails, switch to another.
6. After Landing: If ears remain blocked, try yawning or chewing vigorously. Warm compresses over the ears may help relax surrounding muscles.

Tip: Flying soon after scuba diving? Wait at least 12–18 hours to avoid trapped air and increased barotrauma risk.

Real-Life Example: A Frequent Flyer’s Experience

Sarah, a corporate consultant based in Chicago, flies over 50,000 miles annually. After recurring ear pain during winter flights, she consulted an ENT specialist. She discovered that her seasonal allergies were causing chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction. By adjusting her pre-flight routine—starting a daily saline nasal rinse, using a steroid spray two days before travel, and always carrying xylitol-based chewing gum—she reduced her ear pain incidents from 70% of flights to fewer than 10%. Her breakthrough came when she stopped sleeping during descent and instead used a combination of the Toynbee maneuver and controlled jaw exercises.

“I used to dread landing,” Sarah says. “Now I know exactly what to do, and I even teach my colleagues. It’s made a huge difference in how I feel after long trips.”

Special Considerations for Children and Infants

Babies and young children cannot intentionally equalize their ears. Parents must intervene to prevent discomfort. Feeding during descent—via bottle, breast, or sippy cup—encourages swallowing. For older toddlers, offering a lollipop or chewy snack works well.

Avoid letting infants sleep through descent if possible. Gently waking them to feed can prevent prolonged pressure buildup. Pacifiers are effective for younger babies, as the sucking motion promotes constant swallowing.

“Parents often don’t realize their baby is in pain until they cry intensely during landing. Proactive feeding can prevent this entirely.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Pediatric ENT

When to Seek Medical Help

Most ear discomfort resolves within minutes to hours after landing. However, persistent symptoms may indicate complications such as:

• Fluid buildup in the middle ear (serous otitis media)
• Eardrum perforation (rare, but possible with forceful Valsalva)
• Temporary hearing loss

If you experience any of the following, consult a healthcare provider:

• Pain lasting more than 24 hours
• Drainage from the ear
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Significant hearing loss

Recurrent barotrauma may require evaluation for chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction. Treatments can include long-term nasal steroids, pressure-equalizing ear tubes, or surgical options in severe cases.

FAQ

Can earplugs really help with airplane pressure?

Yes, specialized \"airplane earplugs\" made of slow-responding filter material (like ceramic or polymer) can dampen rapid pressure changes, giving your ears more time to adjust. Standard foam earplugs do not offer this benefit and may worsen the sensation of fullness.

Is it safe to use decongestants before flying?

For most healthy adults, short-term use of oral or nasal decongestants is safe. However, people with high blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid disorders, or glaucoma should consult a doctor first. Pregnant women should also seek medical advice before use.

Why do my ears pop on takeoff but hurt on landing?

During takeoff, pressure drops gradually, and swallowing naturally releases excess air from the middle ear. On landing, pressure increases rapidly, forcing the Eustachian tube to open against higher resistance—making it harder to equalize and more likely to cause pain.

Checklist: Prepare for a Comfortable Landing

• ✅ Avoid sleeping during descent
• ✅ Pack gum, hard candy, or a pacifier (for infants)
• ✅ Use a nasal decongestant spray 30 minutes before landing
• ✅ Start equalization techniques early—don’t wait for pain
• ✅ Stay hydrated; avoid alcohol and salty foods
• ✅ Consider filtered earplugs designed for air travel
• ✅ Consult a doctor if you have active sinus or ear infections

Conclusion

Ear pain during airplane landing is common but not inevitable. Understanding the role of the Eustachian tube and practicing timely pressure equalization techniques can transform your flying experience. Whether you're a nervous first-time flyer or a seasoned traveler battling seasonal allergies, small adjustments to your routine can prevent significant discomfort. Don’t rely on luck—prepare strategically, use evidence-based methods, and fly smarter.

💬 Have a tip that works for you? Share your experience in the comments and help others fly pain-free!