We are already at the time when plane flights become more frequent and with it arrives An unpleasant custom that has nothing to do with luggage waiting, long lines or small seats: ears pain.
Airplanes usually fly to an average height of about 10,000 meters. At this point, the presence of oxygen is almost nil, so commercial airlines adapt the pressure on board for Simulate an altitude close to 2,500 meters above sea level. This controlled pressure helps prevent evil of height and other physiological effects that can occur at greater altitude.
At great altitude, air pressure is significantly lower and air is also much lighter. This means that There is less oxygen available, which can cause hypoxia (oxygen deficiency) and other physiological problems.
Aircraft pressurization systems use compressors to aspire exterior air, which is then compressed and sent to the cabin. The output valves regulate the amount of air released from the cabin, maintaining the desired pressure on board.
During takeoff and landing, air pressure inside the cabin of the plane changes significantly and this has different effects on our body. In our ears, Eustaquio tubes are narrow ducts that connect the middle ear with the back of the throat. One of its functions is to help regulate air pressure
If the eustachio tubes do not fit quickly to the pressure changes in the cabin, The pressure on one side of the eardrum increases more than in the other, which causes pain and a feeling of congestion or pressure.
This discomfort, common in aerial paths, is known as Barotraumatic otalgia and is caused by sudden changes in booth pressureespecially during takeoff and landing.
When air pressure changes rapidly, the middle ear needs to balance with the outside through the Basque trunk. If this does not open correctly (something frequent in cases of cold, nasal congestion or allergies) The feeling of tamponade, buzzing and even acute pain appears. In more severe cases, it can lead to vertigos or small injuries in the eardrum.
Juan Ignacio Martínez, director of Aural Auditory Centers, gives us five recommendations to take care of the audition during a flight: “Yawn, swallow or chewed gum during takeoff and landing -explains Marínez -. These actions help open the Basque Tube and balance the pressure in the middle ear. It is also advisable to avoid flying with nasal congestion or cold. If it is not possible, use a nasal decongestant before the flight to facilitate the ventilation of the ear. ”
Other important details also include Stay hydrated and avoid sleeping during the descentwhen pressure changes are more intense. There is the possibility of using aviation caps (progressive pressure): they are reusable and help the pressure changes occur more gradually. In young children, chupos or bottle can also be used during takeoff and landing. Suction and swallowing help avoid discomfort.
“Otalgia is not usually serious -Martínez concludes -but If the inconvenience persists after the flight or if there is a history of ear infections, it is advisable to go to audiological review. ”
Finally, what happens if we carry headphones? Although only 3 out of 10 people with auditory problems use headphones in Spain, the number increases every year. Fortunately, headphones users can fly without problems, however, Martínez recommends Keep headphones on the flight, except for medical indication or specific discomfort. It is also advisable to carry batteries or spare loaders, since temperature and pressure changes can affect autonomy.