If you cope with tinnitus, boarding a plane may cause more than just enthusiasm about your destination– it might also come with worries about intensifying ear symptoms. The increased noise inside the airplane, variations in air pressure, and the stress associated with flying can all result in a worsening or more disturbing experience of tinnitus. By grasping the effect of air travel on your ears and taking practical measures, you can substantially reduce distress and make your upcoming flight a lot more enjoyable.
What is tinnitus and why does it surface in the air?
Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no existent outside sound present. For some people, it presents as a relentless ringing, while other people might hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static-like sounds.
While tinnitus itself 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 damage the auditory system.
- Ear Infections or Blockages: Fluid buildup and infections can activate or worsen tinnitus.
- Ototoxic Medications: Certain drugs can harm the inner ear, leading to or aggravating symptoms.
- 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, a number of variables can intensify the symptoms, making travel more unpleasant for those impacted.
Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus
“Airplane ear” is a phrase used to describe the sensation of fullness, pressure, or muffled hearing that frequently accompanies flying. The issue arises when the eustachian tubes, in charge of sustaining 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.
For individuals who cope with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can amplify their symptoms or present new ones. The stress and sensory stimulation of air travel can exacerbate the problem.
Why flying can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms due to various factors.
- Jet Engine Noise: High volume levels inside the cabin, especially near the engines, can aggravate sensitivity in the ears and exacerbate tinnitus.
- Changes in Air Pressure: The abrupt shifts in air pressure that occur during flight takeoff and landing can interfere with the regular functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, potentially causing or worsening tinnitus symptoms.
- Stress and Exhaustion: The stress of travel, combined with lack of sleep or dehydration, can increase your perception of tinnitus and cause it to feel more disruptive.
In-flight strategies to alleviate ringing in the ears.
Taking a few basic actions can go a long way toward easing the strain on 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. 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 feasible, select a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This area is typically calmer and better suited for a relaxing journey.
- Steer Clear of Conventional Earplugs: These types of earplugs can potentially intensify the issue by putting additional pressure on the inner ear, worsening existing symptoms. As an alternative, try ear pressure-regulating earplugs designed specifically for air travel.
- Chew Gum or Swallow Frequently: These actions help keep the eustachian tubes open up, allowing pressure to equalize more effectively.
- Use a Decongestant (If Approved by Your Doctor): If you’re fighting nasal congestion or allergies, consider using an oral or nasal decongestant before flying to avoid 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 staying calm and entertained during a flight
Diversion is a powerful tool for managing tinnitus. Consider diverting your attention with engaging distractions including audiobooks, calming music, or brain teasers to shift your attention away. Practicing meditation using apps and engaging in breathing exercises can decrease anxiety associated with flying and decrease your focus on tinnitus.
Before your trip, try to get quality sleep and stay hydrated. Steering clear of caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel might also help minimize symptoms associated with the ears. If you depend on hearing aids, think about wearing them during your flight – they can help recover a more natural hearing experience and potentially minimize the impact of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.
Seek 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 root cause of your tinnitus and lead to targeted recommendations– including custom travel strategies or treatment options to manage flare-ups more effectively.
Arrange a consultation to evaluate your ringing in the ears symptoms now.