For people who experience tinnitus, air travel can be a source of anxiety, as the flight may exacerbate their ear discomfort, adding to the normal pre-trip anxieties about getting to their final destination. The boosted noise inside the airplane, fluctuations in air pressure, and the stress associated with flying can all lead to a worsening or more disturbing experience of tinnitus. Luckily, recognizing how flying affects your ears and discovering ways to prepare can make your next trip 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 external sound present. For some, it presents as a relentless ringing, while other people may hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static-like noise.
While tinnitus itself isn’t a disease, it’s frequently a symptom of a hidden issue including:
- Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or extended exposure to excessive sound levels can damage the fragile structures of the inner ear.
- Ear Infections or Obstructions: Fluid buildup and infections can trigger or worsen tinnitus.
- Some medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, triggering or aggravating hearing and balance issues.
- Benign Tumors: Acoustic neuromas are benign tumors that can impact both hearing and balance.
Tinnitus could be subjective (heard only by the patient) or objective (audible to a clinician through a stethoscope-like device). When flying, several variables can worsen the symptoms, making travel more uncomfortable for those impacted.
Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus
“Airplane ear” is a phrase used to define the feeling of fullness, pressure, or muffled hearing that often accompanies flying. The problem arises when the eustachian tubes, in charge of sustaining ear pressure, have difficulty adapting to going up or down. Insufficient opening of these tubes may cause pressure differences to arise, leading to discomfort or pain.
Individuals who have tinnitus might find that this pressure inconsistency worsens their existing symptoms or activates new ones. The added stress and sensory overload of a flight only magnify the problem.
Why flying can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms due to various factors.
- Loud jet engine noise within the plane can be especially bothersome near the engines, potentially irritating sensitive ears and exacerbating existing ringing in the ears, or tinnitus.
- Changes in Air Pressure: The abrupt changes in air pressure that happen during flight takeoff and landing can disrupt the regular functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, potentially causing or worsening tinnitus symptoms.
- Stress and Fatigue: The stress of travel, combined with poor sleep or dehydration, can increase your perception of tinnitus and make it feel more disruptive.
Travel suggestions for decreasing tinnitus discomfort mid-flight
Taking a few simple actions can go a long way toward easing the strain on your ears during air travel:
- Make Use Of Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can substantially reduce background engine noise, especially during takeoff and landing. You can also listen to calming music or white noise, which can help cover up the ringing in your ears.
- Opt for a tactical seating option: If possible, select a seat towards the front of the plane instead of near the engines. This spot tends to be quieter and more conducive to a peaceful flight.
- Stay Clear Of Basic Earplugs: Though tempting, traditional earplugs may increase inner ear pressure, making symptoms more severe. Instead, try ear pressure-regulating earplugs designed specifically for 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.
- Use a Decongestant: Consider using a decongestant, either in oral or nasal form, before your flight if your physician recommends it. This can help alleviate nasal congestion and allergies, potentially preventing any blockages in the eustachian tubes.
- Remain Awake 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.
In-flight distractions and relaxation strategies
Refocusing one’s attention can be a highly effective approach for dealing with tinnitus. Consider diverting your attention with engaging distractions such as audiobooks, calming music, or brain teasers to shift your focus away. Practicing meditation using apps and engaging in breathing exercises can decrease 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 related to the ears. And if you wear hearing aids, don’t hesitate to use them on the plane– they might help you hear more naturally, decreasing the prominence of the internal ringing or buzzing.
Get professional advice if tinnitus disrupts travel
If you regularly experience discomfort while flying due to tinnitus, it is recommended to get advice from a professional in hearing health. A detailed evaluation can identify the hidden reason for your tinnitus and bring about specific suggestions, including individualized coping techniques or treatment plans, to better manage instances of increased symptoms.
Schedule an evaluation for your tinnitus symptoms today.