If you cope with tinnitus, going on a plane might cause more than just excitement about your destination– it might also come with concerns about intensifying ear symptoms. The increased noise inside the airplane, fluctuations in air pressure, and the anxiety associated with flying can all result in a worsening or more disturbing experience of tinnitus. Fortunately, understanding how flying impacts your ears and discovering ways to prepare can make your next journey much more manageable.

What is tinnitus and why does it flare up in the air?

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

Tinnitus is often a warning sign of a deeper health problem or hidden condition, including:

• Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or extended exposure to extreme sound levels can harm the delicate structures of the inner ear.
• Blockages or Infection: Tinnitus can be activated or exacerbated by fluid build-up and infections in the ears.
• Ototoxic Medicines: A number of drugs can harm the inner ear, leading to or aggravating symptoms.
• Benign Tumors: Growths like acoustic neuromas might impact hearing and balance.

Tinnitus could be subjective (heard only by the patient) or objective (audible to a specialist through a stethoscope-like device). Air travel can exacerbate symptoms for some individuals, resulting in a more distressing experience during flights.

Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus

“Airplane ear” is a term used to describe the sensation of fullness, pressure, or muffled hearing that often accompanies flying. The issue arises when the eustachian tubes, responsible for maintaining ear pressure, have difficulty adjusting to going up or down. If these tubes fail to open efficiently, pressure discrepancies can develop, causing discomfort or even pain.

For individuals who cope with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can amplify their symptoms or introduce new ones. The stress and sensory stimulation of air travel can exacerbate the issue.

Why flying can aggravate tinnitus symptoms

Air travel can aggravate tinnitus symptoms because of several factors.

• Jet Engine Noise: High volume levels inside the cabin, especially near the engines, can intensify sensitivity in the ears and worsen tinnitus.
• Pressure Alterations: During takeoff and landing, the quick shifts in cabin pressure can impact how the eardrum and surrounding structures vibrate, which may trigger or heighten tinnitus.
• Travel-related anxiety, combined with inadequate rest or insufficient hydration, can intensify the experience of tinnitus, making it seem more obvious and troublesome.

Travel suggestions for decreasing tinnitus discomfort mid-flight

By working a few easy safeguards into your flight routine, you can significantly reduce the discomfort and pressure in your ears during air travel.

• Wearing noise-canceling headphones can considerably decrease the disruptive sounds of the plane’s engine, especially during the noisy periods of departure and arrival. They also allow you to listen to relaxing music or white noise, which may mask tinnitus.
• Opt for a tactical seating option: If feasible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane instead of 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. Alternatively, think about using plugs that are produced for regulating ear pressure during air travel.
• Chew Gum: To reduce discomfort, try chewing gum or swallowing frequently, as these simple actions can help maintain the patency of the eustachian tubes, facilitating a more efficient balance of pressure.
• Take a Decongestant (If Authorized by Your Doctor): If you’re fighting nasal congestion or allergies, think about using an oral or nasal decongestant prior to flying to avoid blockages in the eustachian tubes.
• Stay Awake during Takeoff and Landing: Being awake helps your body naturally regulate pressure. Resting at these times may decrease the chances of achieving proper pressure balance.

In-flight distractions and relaxation strategies

Redirecting one’s attention can be a highly effective approach for dealing with tinnitus. Bring entertainment options like audiobooks, calming playlists, or puzzles to keep your attention elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and engaging in breathing exercises can decrease anxiety associated with flying and decrease your awareness of tinnitus.

Prior to your journey, be sure to rest well and stay hydrated. Steering clear of caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel may also help lessen symptoms related to the ears. If you depend on hearing aids, consider using them during your flight – they can help restore a more natural hearing experience and potentially minimize the effect of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.

Get professional guidance if tinnitus disrupts travel

If tinnitus regularly makes flying uncomfortable, it’s worth consulting with a hearing specialist. A comprehensive evaluation can identify the underlying cause of your tinnitus and result in targeted recommendations– including custom travel strategies or treatment options to deal with flare-ups more successfully.

Schedule an evaluation for your tinnitus symptoms today.