Popping of Ears - Travel & Health Tips

Gases in the body expand and contract as the aircraft ascends and descends. During take-off, the climb is rapid and the gas trapped in the middle ear expands and escapes to the surrounding sinuses and the ears may 'pop.' When the aircraft descends, these gases need to get back into the middle ear. Any blockage will cause discomfort and pain. Swallowing, chewing or yawning can relieve the discomfort. Small babies can be helped by giving them a feed or a pacifier (dummy) to help with swallowing.

If you have a cold, sinusitis or nose infection, avoid air travel. Sometimes, to get rid of the trapped air, a Valsalva maneuver - a short forceful expiration against a pinched nose and closed mouth- maybe needed.