Sudafed 30 milligrams one hour before the plane lands If flying and diving is a chronic problem, start a nasal steroid (Flonase, Nasonex, Nasacort) for 2 weeks prior to your trip/dive. Pop your ears early and often. For flying, try to pop your ears as the plane descends.

Flonase (fluticasone) is often recommended by doctors as a preventative measure for airplane ear, particularly for travelers who suffer from chronic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) or seasonal allergies. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and the openings of the Eustachian tubes, which are responsible for equalizing pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere. However, Flonase is a steroid nasal spray, meaning it takes several days or even weeks of consistent use to reach full effectiveness; it is not a "quick fix" to be used minutes before takeoff. For those with significant congestion, a decongestant spray like Afrin is more effective for immediate, short-term relief during descent, though it should not be used for more than three consecutive days. If you plan to use Flonase for travel in 2026, medical professionals suggest starting the regimen at least one to two weeks before your flight to ensure your sinuses are clear enough to handle the rapid pressure changes of the aircraft cabin.