Tips for Dealing With Tinnitus During Air Travel

Woman sitting in airplane seat with headphones on.

If you cope with tinnitus, boarding a plane might cause more than just enthusiasm about your destination– it may also come with worries about worsening ear symptoms. The loud cabin noise, shifting air pressure, and stress associated with air travel can all add to more intense or irritating tinnitus. By grasping the effect of air travel on your ears and taking practical steps, you can substantially decrease discomfort and make your approaching flight much more enjoyable.

What causes tinnitus to worsen in high-elevation settings?

Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no existent outside sound present. For some, it presents as a persistent ringing, while others might hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static-like noise.

Tinnitus is frequently a warning sign of a deeper health issue or underlying condition, including:

  • Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or extended exposure to excessive sound levels can damage the fragile structures of the inner ear.
  • Obstructions or Infection: Tinnitus can be triggered or intensified by fluid accumulation and infections in the ears.
  • Ototoxic Medications: A number of medications can harm the inner ear, resulting in or intensifying symptoms.
  • Benign Tumors: Acoustic neuromas are benign tumors that can affect both 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 people, resulting in a more stressful experience during flights.

Exploring the connection between airplane ear and tinnitus

The term “airplane ear” refers to the sensation of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing dulled hearing while flying. The issue occurs when the eustachian tubes, in charge of maintaining ear pressure, have difficulty adapting to going up or down. If these tubes don’t 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 added stress and sensory overload of a flight only magnify the problem.

How air travel can intensify tinnitus symptoms

Air travel can aggravate tinnitus symptoms due to several factors.

  • Loud jet engine noise inside of the plane can be especially bothersome close to the engines, potentially irritating sensitive ears and exacerbating existing ringing in the ears, or tinnitus.
  • Pressure Alterations: During takeoff and landing, the quick changes in cabin pressure can affect how the eardrum and surrounding structures vibrate, which might activate or heighten tinnitus.
  • Stress and Fatigue: The anxiety of travel, combined with lack of sleep or dehydration, can increase your experience of tinnitus and make it feel more intrusive.

In-flight techniques to reduce ringing in the ears.

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

  • Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can significantly reduce background engine noise, particularly during takeoff and landing. They also allow you to listen to soothing music or white noise, which can mask tinnitus.
  • Select a strategic seating choice: If feasible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This location is generally calmer and better suited for a relaxing journey.
  • Stay Away From Standard Earplugs: These types of earplugs can potentially exacerbate the issue by putting additional pressure on the inner ear, worsening existing symptoms. Instead, consider using plugs that are made for regulating ear pressure during air travel.
  • Chew Gum or Swallow Regularly: These actions help keep the eustachian tubes open up, allowing pressure to equalize more effectively.
  • Take a Decongestant (If Authorized by Your Doctor): If you’re fighting nasal congestion or allergies, think about taking an oral or nasal decongestant prior to flying to prevent obstructions in the eustachian tubes.
  • Remain Awake During Ascent and Descent: Staying awake allows your body to naturally adapt to air pressure changes. Sleeping during these moments can decrease the likelihood of active pressure equalization.

Techniques for staying calm and entertained during a flight

Diversion is a powerful tool for managing tinnitus. Consider diverting your attention with engaging distractions such as audiobooks, calming music, or brain teasers to shift your attention away. Meditation apps and breathing exercises can also help alleviate flight-related anxiety and lessen your awareness of tinnitus.

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

Seek professional guidance if tinnitus interferes with travel

If you frequently experience discomfort while flying because of tinnitus, it is advisable to get advice from a professional in hearing health. A detailed assessment can identify the hidden reason for your tinnitus and result in specific suggestions, such as personalized coping strategies or treatment plans, to better manage instances of increased symptoms.

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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