Ananya Menon Ananya Menon Asked 5 months ago

How to get rid of ear pain after flight?

After my flight yesterday, my ears have been throbbing with pain, and it feels like they're blocked. This happens sometimes after flying. How can I get rid of ear pain after a flight quickly?

7

7 answers

Meenakshi Sundaram Meenakshi Sundaram Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

This happens due to rapid changes in air pressure affecting the eustachian tube. My doctor advised me to chew gum or yawn during take-off and landing to keep the passage open. If the block and pain persist for more than 48 hours, you should see an ENT to check for barotrauma.

Karan Johar Karan Johar Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Don't start inserting rolled up tissues or dropping warm liquids in your ear based on internet videos. If the pressure isn't equalizing naturally, go to a qualified doctor. Trying weird physical maneuvers yourself can sometimes damage the delicate inner ear.

Rahul Verma Rahul Verma Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

I can only share what works for me when my ears block up after flying. I usually try the Valsalva maneuver, where I pinch my nose, close my mouth, and gently blow out. It usually pops my ears and relieves the pressure, but I do it very carefully.

Powered by

Consult a ent specialist

Priyanka Nair Priyanka Nair Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

I travel almost every week for client meetings and face this often. Try taking a simple steam inhalation as soon as you reach your hotel room to clear any nasal congestion. If it doesn't clear in a day, drop by a local clinic instead of waiting around.

Harish Vyas Harish Vyas Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

While diet doesn't directly cure pressure pain, staying hydrated with warm herbal teas during the flight can keep your sinuses clear. Avoid eating heavy, sodium-rich airport food that might cause water retention and worsen congestion in your ears.

Related reads

All articles
Simran Kaur Simran Kaur Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I had terrible ear pain after my flight last week because of a slight cold. What actually helped me was sipping warm water slowly and keeping my jaw moving. The pressure eventually cleared on its own by the next morning.

Abhishek Roy Abhishek Roy Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Bro, just chew some bubblegum when the flight is descending. It keeps your jaw working and prevents that painful air lock. If you already have the pain now, just take a hot shower and let the steam do its magic.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.