Can you rupture an eardrum while flying?

Introduction. Changes in air pressure during flying can cause ear-drum pain and perforation, vertigo, and hearing loss. It has been estimated that 10% of adults and 22% of children might have changes to the ear drum after a flight, although perforation is rare. Symptoms usually resolve spontaneously.



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If at all possible, it's best to avoid flying when you or your children have an ear infection or a sinus infection. These block the Eustachian tubes, placing additional pressure on the eardrum. Whenever there is continual, increased pressure on the eardrum, it can rupture.

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Introduction. Changes in air pressure during flying can cause ear-drum pain and perforation, vertigo, and hearing loss. It has been estimated that 10% of adults and 22% of children might have damage to the ear drum after a flight, although perforation is rare. Symptoms usually resolve spontaneously.

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Severe pain. Increased ear pressure. Moderate to severe hearing loss. Ringing in your ear (tinnitus)

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Perforations of the eardrum often heal on their own, but this can take weeks. You may not be able to hear as well until the ear is fully healed. If your perforation has not healed after two months, you may need surgery to prevent permanent hearing loss.

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Spray Afrin nasal decongestant spray twice into each nostril one hour prior to flying. Begin taking a decongestant, like Sudafed, one hour before the flight. Both of these medications can be purchased over-the-counter in a drug store.

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Airplane ear is also called ear barotrauma, barotitis media or aerotitis media. Self-care steps — such as yawning, swallowing or chewing gum — usually can counter the differences in air pressure and improve airplane ear symptoms. However, for a severe case of airplane ear, you might need to see a doctor.

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Most of the time, the pressure should clear up a few hours after you're back on land, she says. If it lingers longer—into the following day, for example—you might have a buildup of fluid behind your ear that isn't ventilating properly. For that, you'll probably want to see a doctor.

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3. Take your medication at least an hour before your flight. If you're taking antihistamines, decongestants, or over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, it's important to take your medication at least an hour before your flight so it has time to work before your plane takes off.

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