For people who deal with tinnitus, air travel can be a source of anxiety, as the flight may exacerbate their ear discomfort, enhancing the normal pre-trip jitters about getting to their final destination. The boosted noise inside the airplane, fluctuations in air pressure, and the anxiety related to flying can all result in a worsening or more bothersome experience of tinnitus. Fortunately, understanding how flying impacts your ears and discovering ways to prepare can make your next journey far more manageable.

What causes tinnitus to intensify in high-elevation environments?

Tinnitus is the apprehension of sound without any external source. Some people experience a constant ringing sound, while others perceive buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static sounds.

While tinnitus on its own isn’t a disease, it’s often a symptom of a hidden issue such as:

• Inner Ear Damage: Exposure to loud noises or head trauma can weaken the auditory system.
• Ear Infections or Blockages: Fluid buildup and infections can activate or exacerbate tinnitus.
• Ototoxic Medications: Certain drugs can harm the inner ear, resulting in or intensifying symptoms.
• Benign Tumors: Growths like acoustic neuromas may impact hearing and balance.

Tinnitus could be subjective (experienced only by the patient) or objective (audible to a specialist through a stethoscope-like device). When flying, several variables can intensify the symptoms, making travel more unpleasant for those impacted.

Understanding airplane ear and its connection to tinnitus

The term “airplane ear” describes the feeling of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing dulled hearing while flying. The problem occurs when the eustachian tubes, responsible for maintaining ear pressure, have difficulty adapting to going up or down. If these tubes fail to open efficiently, pressure imbalances can develop, causing discomfort or even pain.

People who have tinnitus might find that this pressure inconsistency worsens their existing symptoms or activates additional ones. The additional stress and sensory overload of a flight only magnify the problem.

How air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms

Several elements of air travel may worsen tinnitus:

• Loud jet engine sounds inside of the plane can be especially irritating 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 shifts in cabin pressure can affect how the eardrum and surrounding structures vibrate, which might trigger or heighten tinnitus.
• Stress and Exhaustion: The anxiety of travel, combined with lack of sleep or dehydration, can increase your perception of tinnitus and make it feel more intrusive.

Travel suggestions for reducing tinnitus discomfort mid-flight

Taking a few basic steps can go a long way toward relieving the strain on your ears during air travel:

• Using noise-canceling headphones can greatly decrease the disruptive sounds of the plane’s engine, especially during the loud periods of departure and arrival. They also allow you to listen to soothing music or white noise, which can mask tinnitus.
• Opt for a tactical seating choice: If feasible, go with a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This area is generally calmer and better suited for a tranquil journey.
• Steer Clear of Conventional Earplugs: These types of earplugs can possibly exacerbate the problem by putting added pressure on the inner ear, aggravating existing symptoms. Alternatively, think about using plugs that are made for regulating ear pressure during air travel.
• Chew Gum: To reduce discomfort, try chewing gum or swallowing regularly, as these simple actions can help sustain the patency of the eustachian tubes, promoting a more efficient balance of pressure.
• Use a Decongestant: Consider taking a decongestant, either in oral or nasal form, before your flight if your doctor advises it. This can help reduce nasal congestion and allergies, potentially preventing any blockages in the eustachian tubes.
• Remain Alert During Ascent and Descent: Staying awake allows your body to naturally adjust to air pressure changes. Resting at these times may decrease the chances of achieving proper pressure balance.

Techniques for remaining calm and entertained during a flight

Distraction is a powerful tool for managing tinnitus. Bring entertainment alternatives like audiobooks, soothing playlists, or puzzles to keep your focus elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and doing breathing exercises can reduce anxiety associated with flying and decrease your focus on tinnitus.

Before your flight, try to get quality sleep and stay hydrated. Skipping caffeine or alcohol on travel day can also decrease ear-related symptoms. And if you use hearing aids, don’t hesitate to wear them on the plane– they might help you hear more naturally, reducing the prominence of the internal ringing or buzzing.

Talk with a professional if tinnitus affects your ability to travel

If tinnitus routinely makes flying unpleasant, it’s worth consulting with a hearing specialist. A detailed evaluation can pinpoint the hidden reason for your tinnitus and result in specific recommendations, including individualized coping techniques or treatment plans, to better manage instances of increased symptoms.

Set up an evaluation for your tinnitus symptoms today.