How to Prevent Tinnitus from Worsening While Flying

HEARING TIPS

Woman sitting in airplane seat with headphones on.

For people who deal with tinnitus, air travel can be a source of stress, as the flight may intensify their ear discomfort, adding to the normal pre-trip jitters about getting to their final destination. The loud cabin noise, shifting air pressure, and stress associated with air travel can all contribute to more extreme or bothersome tinnitus. Fortunately, understanding how flying impacts your ears and learning ways to prepare can make your next journey much more manageable.

What is tinnitus and why does it surface in the air?

Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no actual outside sound present. Some people experience a continuous ringing sound, while others perceive buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static sounds.

Tinnitus is frequently an indicator of a deeper health problem or underlying condition, including:

  • Inner Ear Damage: Exposure to loud sounds or head trauma can weaken the auditory system.
  • Obstructions or Infection: Tinnitus can be activated or exacerbated by fluid build-up and infections in the ears.
  • Certain medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, causing or aggravating hearing and balance problems.
  • Benign Tumors: Growths including acoustic neuromas might affect hearing and balance.

Tinnitus can be perceived in two ways: as a personal experience that only the person can hear, or as a sound that can be detected by a medical professional using specialized listening equipment. Air travel can exacerbate symptoms for some individuals, leading to a more stressful experience during flights.

Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus

The term “airplane ear” describes the feeling of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing dulled hearing when flying. It occurs when the eustachian tubes– which regulate pressure in the middle ear– struggle to adapt to altitude changes during take of and landing. If these tubes don’t open effectively, pressure imbalances can develop, leading to discomfort or even pain.

For individuals with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can amplify their symptoms or introduce new ones. The additional stress and sensory overload of a flight only magnify the problem.

How air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms

A number of elements of air travel may worsen tinnitus:

  • Loud jet engine noise within the aircraft can be especially irritating close to the engines, potentially irritating sensitive ears and intensifying existing ringing in the ears, or tinnitus.
  • Changes in Air Pressure: The abrupt changes in air pressure that occur during flight takeoff and landing can interfere with the regular functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, possibly causing or worsening tinnitus symptoms.
  • Travel-related anxiety, combined with inadequate rest or insufficient hydration, can exacerbate the experience of tinnitus, making it seem more obvious and bothersome.

In-flight techniques to reduce ringing in the ears.

By putting a few easy safeguards into your flight routine, you can considerably decrease the discomfort and pressure in your ears during air travel.

  • Make Use Of Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can significantly reduce background engine noise, particularly during takeoff and landing. You can also listen to relaxing music or white noise, which can help cover up the ringing in your ears.
  • Opt for a strategic seating choice: If possible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This spot tends to be quieter and more conducive to a tranquil flight.
  • Avoid Standard Earplugs: Though tempting, traditional earplugs may increase inner ear pressure, making symptoms worse. Instead, try ear pressure-regulating earplugs designed specifically for air travel.
  • Chew Gum: To alleviate discomfort, try chewing gum or swallowing regularly, as these simple actions can help maintain the patency of the eustachian tubes, facilitating a more effective balance of pressure.
  • Use a Decongestant: Think about using a decongestant, either in oral or nasal form, before your flight if your doctor advises it. This can help alleviate nasal congestion and allergies, potentially avoiding any blockages in the eustachian tubes.
  • Remain Alert During Ascent and Descent: Staying awake allows your body to naturally adjust to air pressure changes. Sleeping during these moments can decrease the likelihood of active pressure adjustement.

Techniques for staying relaxed and entertained during a flight

Diversion is a powerful tool for managing tinnitus. Bring entertainment alternatives like audiobooks, soothing playlists, or puzzles to keep your attention elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and doing breathing exercises can reduce anxiety related to flying and decrease your focus on tinnitus.

Before your flight, try to get quality rest and stay hydrated. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel may also help lessen symptoms associated with the ears. If you rely on hearing aids, consider wearing them during your flight – they can help recover a more natural hearing experience and potentially minimize the effect of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.

Talk with a professional if tinnitus affects your ability to travel

If you frequently experience discomfort while flying due to tinnitus, it is advisable to get advice from a specialist in hearing health. A comprehensive evaluation can identify the root cause of your tinnitus and lead to targeted advice– including custom travel solutions or treatment options to manage flare-ups more successfully.

Set up an assessment for your tinnitus symptoms today.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.

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