If you cope with tinnitus, going on a plane might cause more than just enthusiasm about your destination– it may also come with concerns about intensifying ear symptoms. The loud cabin noise, changing air pressure, and tension related to air travel can all contribute to more intense or irritating tinnitus. Luckily, understanding how flying affects your ears and learning ways to prepare can make your next journey far more manageable.
What causes tinnitus to worsen in high-elevation environments?
Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no existent outside sound present. Some people experience a continuous ringing sound, while others perceive buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static sounds.
Tinnitus is frequently an indicator of a deeper health problem or underlying condition, including:
- Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or prolonged exposure to extreme 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.
- Certain medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, triggering or worsening hearing and balance issues.
- Benign Tumors: Growths like acoustic neuromas might affect hearing and balance.
Tinnitus may be subjective (heard only by the patient) or objective (audible to a specialist through a stethoscope-like device). When flying, several variables can intensify the symptoms, making travel more uncomfortable for those impacted.
Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus
The term “airplane ear” refers to the sensation of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing muted hearing while flying. It happens when the eustachian tubes– which regulate pressure in the middle ear– struggle to adapt to altitude changes during ascent or descent. Inadequate opening of these tubes might cause pressure imbalances to arise, resulting in discomfort or pain.
For people with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can intensify their symptoms or present new ones. The stress and sensory stimulation of air travel can increase the issue.
How air travel can intensify tinnitus symptoms
A number of elements of air travel might worsen tinnitus:
- Jet Engine Noise: High volume levels inside the cabin, particularly near the engines, can intensify sensitivity in the ears and worsen tinnitus.
- Shifts in Air Pressure: The abrupt changes in air pressure that occur during flight takeoff and landing can interfere with the regular functioning of the eardrum and nearby tissues, possibly causing or exacerbating tinnitus symptoms.
- Stress and Fatigue: The stress of travel, combined with lack of sleep or dehydration, can increase your experience of tinnitus and cause it to feel more disruptive.
In-flight strategies to alleviate ringing in the ears.
Taking a few basic steps can go a long way toward easing the strain on your ears during air travel:
- Using noise-canceling headphones can greatly minimize the distracting sounds of the plane’s engine, particularly during the noisy periods of departure and arrival. They also allow you to listen to relaxing music or white noise, which may mask tinnitus.
- Opt for a strategic seating choice: If possible, select a seat towards the front of the plane instead of near the engines. This area is generally calmer and better suited for a tranquil journey.
- Stay Clear Of Basic Earplugs: Though tempting, conventional earplugs might increase inner ear pressure, making symptoms more severe. Instead, consider utilizing plugs that are produced for controling ear pressure during air travel.
- Chew Gum or Swallow Frequently: These actions help keep the eustachian tubes open up, allowing pressure to equalize more efficiently.
- Take a Decongestant (If Authorized by Your Doctor): If you’re battling nasal congestion or allergies, consider using an oral or nasal decongestant before flying to avoid blockages in the eustachian tubes.
- Stay Awake during Takeoff and Landing: Being awake helps your body naturally manage pressure. Sleeping during these times can decrease the probability of active pressure adjustement.
In-flight distractions and relaxation solutions
Distraction is a powerful tool for managing tinnitus. Bring entertainment alternatives like audiobooks, soothing playlists, or puzzles to keep your focus elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and doing breathing exercises can reduce anxiety associated with flying and reduce your awareness of tinnitus.
Prior to your trip, make sure to rest well and stay hydrated. Skipping caffeine or alcohol on travel day can also reduce ear-related symptoms. If you depend on hearing aids, consider using them during your flight – they can help restore a more natural hearing experience and potentially decrease the effect of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.
Consult with a specialist if tinnitus impacts your ability to travel
If you regularly experience discomfort while flying due to tinnitus, it is recommended to get advice from a professional in hearing health. A detailed assessment can pinpoint the underlying reason for your tinnitus and bring about specific recommendations, such as personalized coping techniques or treatment plans, to better manage instances of increased symptoms.
Schedule an evaluation for your tinnitus symptoms today.
