How Can Sharp Ear Pain After Travelling On A Plane Be Managed And Cured?

Posted on Thu, 14 Sep 2023

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 Answered on

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : my ear has had a sharp pain recently for the past 2 days. it started when I was travelling in an Airplane.

Answered by Dr. Dr. (-2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It may be due to aerotitis media or airplane ear

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

As per your history, it may be due airplane ear or aerotitis media. It usually occurs due to the change in air pressure in the middle ear while air travelling.

For that, I would suggest to do valsalva maneuver. Kindly use chewing gum. It helps to reduce pain. Along with that you can take decongestant tab. Phenylephrine after physician consultation. For pain kindly take tablet acetaminophen. Pain may subside within 3 to 4 days.

In case of ear discharge kindly consult with ENT surgeon. You may require antibiotics.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Shyam

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj