Traveling by plane is already a reality for many people, making it much easier to travel between states and countries. However, just like during a car trip in the mountains, there are those who end up suffering from some ear discomfort.
In most cases, symptoms range from headaches to tooth and facial discomfort. And the reason why this happens is quite simple: one sudden change in pressure during the change of height during take-off or landing of the airplane, or when traveling by car in the mountains.
“This discomfort can pass within a few seconds or minutes after the end of the journey, but depending on the intensity of the trauma it can increase,” explains Bruno Borges de Carvalho Barros, otolaryngologist. In the case of children and newborns the discomfort can be even greater.
How to avoid blood pressure problems when traveling by plane?
If you are preparing for a flight and are having trouble with blood pressure changes, take a look below at some tips provided by Dr. Barros and also ENT specialist Roberta Pilla!
1. Use the Valsalva maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver is a method that increases intrathoracic pressure to equalize ear pressure. It involves inhaling, keeping your mouth closed and pinching your nostrils with your fingers while letting the air out through your nose.
Although it is the first option, you should avoid doing it too intensely, as it can make ear pain and congestion even worse.
2. Chew constantly
Chewing gum or hard foods, such as apples or carrots, help balance the pressure in the ear and prevent pain when traveling by plane.
Since the chewing motion forces the facial muscles that open the communication between the ear and nose, this helps equalize the pressure and helps reduce the sensation of a blocked ear.
3. Force a yawn
Provoking a yawn using the same principle as chewing activates the facial muscles, releasing the auditory tubes and promoting pressure balance.
4. Make a compress
Applying a warm compress to your ear for about ten minutes helps relieve pain caused by pressure. In fact, this doesn’t just work in flight, as it helps with any type of earache.
5. Use a nasal spray
The use of the nasal spray, provided it is appropriately indicated by the otolaryngologist, facilitates the passage of air to the ear. In this way the pressure rebalances more easily.
6. Help for children
In children, one way to minimize discomfort is to try doing something that moves the jaw.
“Swallowing, giving a pacifier, drinking water, breastfeeding, sucking the bottle and even letting yourself cry a little can help mobilize these structures and improve the discomfort,” commented Dr. Roberta.
“From time to time, the doctor may also recommend ear drops and analgesics to minimize discomfort. Understanding, affection, hugging and cuddling are also always recommended,” concluded the specialist.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
