For individuals who deal with tinnitus, air travel can be a source of anxiety, as the flight might exacerbate their ear discomfort, enhancing the normal pre-trip anxieties about getting to their final destination. 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 perceiving the effect of air travel on your ears and taking practical steps, you can dramatically reduce discomfort and make your upcoming flight much more pleasant.
What causes tinnitus to worsen in high-elevation environments?
Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no actual external sound present. For some, it presents as a persistent ringing, while others might hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static-like sounds.
While tinnitus on its own isn’t a disease, it’s often a symptom of an underlying issue including:
- Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or extended exposure to excessive noise levels can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear.
- Blockages or Infection: Tinnitus can be activated or intensified by fluid build-up and infections in the ears.
- Ototoxic Medicines: A number of medications can harm the inner ear, leading to or intensifying symptoms.
- Benign Tumors: Growths like acoustic neuromas may impact hearing and balance.
Tinnitus can be perceived in two ways: as a personal experience that only the person can hear, or as a sound that can be recognized by a medical professional utilizing specialized listening equipment. Air travel can exacerbate symptoms for some people, resulting in a more stressful experience during flights.
Comprehending airplane ear and its link to tinnitus
The term “airplane ear” refers to the sensation of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing dulled hearing while flying. It occurs when the eustachian tubes– which regulate pressure in the middle ear– struggle to adjust to altitude changes during take of and landing. If these tubes don’t open effectively, pressure imbalances can develop, leading to discomfort or even pain.
People experiencing tinnitus may find that this pressure inconsistency worsens their existing symptoms or activates new ones. The added stress and sensory overload of a flight only compound the issue.
Why flying can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms because of various factors.
- Jet Engine Noise: High decibel levels inside the cabin, especially near the engines, can aggravate sensitivity in the ears and exacerbate tinnitus.
- Changes in Air Pressure: The sudden changes in air pressure that happen during flight takeoff and landing can interfere with the normal functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, potentially causing or exacerbating tinnitus symptoms.
- Travel-related anxiety, coupled with not enough rest or insufficient hydration, can intensify the sensation of tinnitus, making it seem more pronounced and bothersome.
Travel suggestions for reducing tinnitus discomfort mid-flight
Taking a few simple actions can go a long way toward relieving the strain on your ears during air travel:
- Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can substantially reduce background engine noise, particularly during takeoff and landing. 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 possible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane instead of near the engines. This location tends to be quieter and more conducive to a tranquil flight.
- Avoid Standard Earplugs: Though tempting, traditional earplugs might increase inner ear pressure, making symptoms worse. As an alternative, try ear pressure-regulating earplugs made specifically for air travel.
- Chew Gum: To reduce discomfort, try chewing gum or swallowing frequently, as these simple actions can help maintain the patency of the eustachian tubes, facilitating a more efficient balance of pressure.
- Use a Decongestant (If Authorized by Your Doctor): If you’re fighting nasal congestion or allergies, consider using an oral or nasal decongestant prior to flying to prevent blockages in the eustachian tubes.
- Stay Awake for Takeoff and Landing: Being awake helps your body naturally regulate pressure. Sleeping during these times can reduce the likelihood of active pressure equalization.
In-flight distractions and relaxation strategies
Refocusing one’s attention can be a very effective approach for dealing with tinnitus. Bring entertainment alternatives like audiobooks, calming playlists, or puzzles to keep your attention elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and engaging in breathing exercises can reduce anxiety associated with flying and reduce your awareness of tinnitus.
Before your trip, aim to get quality rest and stay hydrated. Steering clear of caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel might also help minimize symptoms associated with the ears. And if you wear hearing aids, don’t hesitate to use them on the plane– they might help you hear more naturally, reducing the prominence of the internal ringing or buzzing.
Seek professional advice if tinnitus interferes with travel
If tinnitus regularly makes flying unpleasant, it’s worth speaking with a hearing specialist. A detailed evaluation can identify the underlying reason for your tinnitus and bring about specific suggestions, such as individualized coping strategies or treatment plans, to better manage instances of increased symptoms.
Set up an assessment for your tinnitus symptoms today.