Ear Pain While Flying

I'm a frequent flyer who just recently flew to the west coast, and for the first time I experienced some discomfort in my ears in flight. If you're one of those people who may have problems clearing your ears on an airplane, here is a small list of things you can do to relieve the symptoms:

1. Yawning - the most effective way to clear the ears.

2. Swallowing

3. Chewing Gum

4. Valsalva Maneuver (aka, Plug your nose and blow!)

5. Nasal Sprays (relief for allergy sufferers)

6. Decongestants

Babies are not able to clear their ears on an airplane, but there are ways to help them get through the discomfort which typically is worse during assent and descent. Using the following techniques during take-off and landing may help:
1. Breastfeeding

2. Bottlefeeding

3. Pacifiers

These are just a few suggestions that may be useful!

Keep Smiling!