Ear pain on planes: useful tips to prevent it

Swallowing and the Valsalva maneuver

Chewing gum or sucking a candy during pressure-change phases encourages frequent swallowing, which opens the Eustachian tube and equalizes the middle ear. When this isn't enough, the Valsalva maneuver - closing your nose and mouth and exhaling gently - rebalances pressure more directly; perform it delicately, never with excessive force.

Pressure-regulating earplugs

Filtering earplugs designed for flying, like those in the EarPlanes line, contain a ceramic regulator that gradually slows the pressure change perceived by the eardrum, unlike normal earplugs that only isolate from noise; some models also reduce cabin noise by roughly 20 decibels.

Colds, congestion, and children

Those flying with a cold or congestion should use a decongestant spray about thirty minutes before takeoff, because these conditions significantly increase the risk of intense pain and, in serious cases, barotrauma. Small children, who cannot swallow on command, benefit from a bottle, pacifier, or sip of water offered right during climb and descent phases.

It applies to both flight phases: swallow actively not only at takeoff but throughout descent as well, when discomfort returns just as often.