Airplane ear

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

You've just settled in for a long, relaxing flight. But then you start to feel pressure and discomfort in your ears. Then there's some pain. And sounds are somewhat muffled. You may be experiencing a condition known as airplane ear.

Also called barotrauma or barotitis media, airplane ear is a condition of discomfort associated with your middle ear. The cause is rapid changes in altitude and air pressure. Often airplane ear occurs when you fly while you have a cold, congested nose, nasal allergy, or throat or sinus infection (sinusitis). It can also occur when you drive in the mountains or go scuba diving. Although the condition is usually just a minor annoyance, airplane ear may result in temporary ear pain and hearing loss.

Ear pain associated with flying is due to unequal pressure between your middle ear and the cabin of the airplane.

Usually, self-care steps can relieve the symptoms of airplane ear in a short time. However, a severe case of barotrauma may require you to see your doctor.

NEXT:

Symptoms

RELATED

MayoClinic.com Bookstore

• 'Mayo Clinic EmbodyHealth Guide to Self-Care' (Softcover)
• 'Mayo Clinic on Hearing' (Softcover)