For individuals who experience tinnitus, air travel can be a source of stress, as the flight may exacerbate their ear discomfort, adding to the normal pre-trip jitters about getting to their final destination. The increased noise inside the airplane, variations in air pressure, and the stress related to flying can all lead to a worsening or more disturbing experience of tinnitus. By grasping the impact of air travel on your ears and taking practical steps, you can dramatically reduce distress and make your upcoming flight much more pleasant.
What causes tinnitus to worsen in high-elevation environments?
Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no actual outside sound present. For some, it presents as a relentless ringing, while others may hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static-like noise.
While tinnitus on its own isn’t a disease, it’s frequently a symptom of a hidden health concerns such as:
- Inner Ear Damage: Exposure to loud sounds or head trauma can weaken the auditory system.
- Ear Infections or Obstructions: Fluid accumulation and infections can activate or worsen tinnitus.
- Some medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, causing or aggravating hearing and balance issues.
- Benign Tumors: Growths like acoustic neuromas may 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 specialist utilizing specialized listening equipment. When flying, several variables can worsen the symptoms, making travel more unpleasant for those impacted.
Exploring the connection between airplane ear and tinnitus
“Airplane ear” is a phrase used to describe the feeling of fullness, pressure, or muted hearing that frequently accompanies flying. It happens when the eustachian tubes– which equalize pressure in the middle ear– struggle to adapt to altitude changes during take of and landing. Insufficient opening of these tubes might cause pressure imbalances to arise, leading to discomfort or pain.
For individuals who cope with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can intensify their symptoms or present new ones. The anxiety and sensory stimulation of air travel can increase the problem.
Why flying can aggravate tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms due to several factors.
- Loud jet engine noise inside of the plane can be particularly irritating near the engines, potentially aggravating sensitive ears and exacerbating existing ringing in the ears, or tinnitus.
- Shifts in Air Pressure: The abrupt shifts in air pressure that happen during flight takeoff and landing can disrupt the normal functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, possibly causing or exacerbating tinnitus symptoms.
- Travel-related anxiety, combined with not enough rest or insufficient hydration, can intensify the sensation of tinnitus, making it seem more pronounced and bothersome.
Travel suggestions for reducing 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 significantly reduce ambient engine noise, particularly during takeoff and landing. They also allow you to listen to calming music or white noise, which may mask tinnitus.
- Opt for a tactical seating choice: If feasible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This location is typically calmer and better suited for a tranquil journey.
- Stay Clear Of Basic Earplugs: Though tempting, traditional earplugs may increase inner ear pressure, making symptoms worse. As an alternative, try ear pressure-regulating earplugs designed specifically for air travel.
- Chew Gum: To alleviate 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 (If Authorized by Your Doctor): If you’re fighting nasal congestion or allergies, consider taking an oral or nasal decongestant before flying to prevent 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 times can reduce the likelihood of active pressure adjustement.
In-flight distractions and relaxation solutions
Redirecting one’s attention can be a highly effective approach for coping 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 reduce your focus on tinnitus.
Before your trip, aim to get quality sleep and stay hydrated. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel might also help lessen symptoms related to the ears. If you rely on hearing aids, consider using them during your flight – they can help recover a more natural hearing experience and potentially decrease the effect of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.
Talk with a specialist if tinnitus affects your ability to travel
If you frequently experience discomfort while flying due to tinnitus, it is recommended to seek advice from a specialist in hearing health. A thorough evaluation can determine the root cause of your tinnitus and result in targeted advice– including custom travel strategies or treatment options to manage flare-ups more successfully.
Arrange a consultation to evaluate your ringing in the ears symptoms now.
