Is It Safe To Fly While Suffering From Ear Pain?

Posted on Mon, 20 Apr 2015

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

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 7 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it ok to fly if having pain below the ear

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could aggravate the pain.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Flying (especially landing) can worsen your ear pain due to pressure changes.

This could be prevented somehow with nasal decongestants and good middle ear ventilation by applying Valsalva maneuver ( blowing air with blocked nose and mouth), or using air pressure regulating ear plugs.

You can fly if you try above mentioned treatment, but there still risk of worsening the pain.

So the call is yours.

Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T