If you are prone to clogged ears, preparation starts 24 hours before boarding.
Decongestant nose sprays, including oxymetazoline (like Afrin) reduce swelling in the back of the nose at the opening of the Eusta... ColumbiaDoctors Ears and airplane travel, earwax, and ear cleaning - University Hospitals Breathe in through the mouth. Pinch the nostrils shut and purse your lips closed. Then exhale (while keeping nostrils and lips sea... University Hospitals Plugged ears: What is the remedy? - Mayo Clinic If your ears are plugged, try swallowing, yawning or chewing sugar-free gum to open your eustachian tubes. If this doesn't take a ... Mayo Clinic Ear Infection Care Marina Del Rey - Otitis Treatment Bakersfield The best medicines to help dry up infected fluid within the ear are antihistamines like Benadryl and decongestants such as Sudafed... Del Rey MD | Sinus | Allergy | ENT Clogged Ear After Flying? Expert Help & Solutions Q&A Nov 24, 2025 — clogged ear after flying
While everyone experiences pressure changes, certain factors make some travelers more prone to clogging: If you are prone to clogged ears, preparation
Your ear has a narrow tube called the that equalizes pressure between your middle ear and the outside air. During takeoff and landing, cabin pressure changes quickly. If the tube gets blocked (by congestion, allergies, or even just anatomy), pressure gets trapped → your eardrum stiffens → you feel clogged, muffled, or painful. Pinch the nostrils shut and purse your lips closed
Stay Awake: Do not sleep during the descent. You need to be conscious to swallow and yawn frequently.Use Earplugs: Specialized pressure-filtering earplugs can slow down the rate of pressure change against your eardrum.The Rule of Swallowing: Chew gum, suck on hard candy, or drink water during the final 30 minutes of the flight.Medicate Early: If you have a cold, take a decongestant about an hour before the plane begins its descent.