For people who deal with tinnitus, air travel can be a source of stress, as the flight might intensify their ear discomfort, adding to the usual pre-trip anxieties about getting to their final destination. The loud cabin noise, shifting air pressure, and tension related to air travel can all contribute to more extreme or irritating tinnitus. Fortunately, understanding how flying impacts your ears and learning ways to prepare can make your next journey far more manageable.
What is tinnitus and why does it surface in the air?
Tinnitus is the experience of hearing sound when there is no existent outside sound present. Some individuals experience a constant ringing sound, while others hear buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static sounds.
Tinnitus is often a warning sign of a deeper health problem or hidden condition, including:
- Inner Ear Damage: Exposure to loud noises or head trauma can weaken the auditory system.
- Ear Infections or Blockages: Fluid buildup and infections can trigger or exacerbate tinnitus.
- Certain medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, causing or aggravating hearing and balance issues.
- Benign Tumors: Acoustic neuromas are benign tumors that can impact both 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 detected by a medical specialist utilizing specialized listening equipment. When flying, a number of variables can intensify the symptoms, making travel more uncomfortable for those affected.
Understanding airplane ear and its link to tinnitus
The term “airplane ear” refers to the feeling of ears being full, under pressure, or experiencing dulled hearing when flying. The problem arises when the eustachian tubes, responsible for sustaining ear pressure, have difficulty adapting to going up or down. Insufficient opening of these tubes might create pressure imbalances to arise, leading to discomfort or pain.
Individuals experiencing tinnitus might find that this pressure inconsistency exacerbates their existing symptoms or triggers new ones. The stress and sensory stimulation of air travel can increase the issue.
How air travel can intensify tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can aggravate tinnitus symptoms due to various factors.
- Jet Engine Noise: High decibel levels inside the cabin, particularly near the engines, can intensify sensitivity in the ears and exacerbate tinnitus.
- Pressure Alterations: During takeoff and landing, the quick changes in cabin pressure can impact how the eardrum and surrounding structures vibrate, which may activate or heighten tinnitus.
- Travel-related stress, coupled with not enough rest or insufficient hydration, can intensify the sensation of tinnitus, making it seem more pronounced and bothersome.
In-flight techniques to alleviate ringing in the ears.
Taking a few simple steps can go a long way toward easing the strain on your ears during air travel:
- Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can significantly decrease 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.
- Select a strategic seating option: If possible, select a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This spot tends to be quieter and more conducive to a peaceful flight.
- Stay Away From Conventional Earplugs: These types of earplugs can possibly exacerbate the issue by putting additional pressure on the inner ear, worsening existing symptoms. Alternatively, think about using plugs that are produced for regulating ear pressure during air travel.
- Chew Gum or Swallow Regularly: These actions help keep the eustachian tubes open up, allowing pressure to equalize more efficiently.
- Use a Decongestant: Think about taking a decongestant, either in oral or nasal form, before your flight if your physician advises it. This can help reduce nasal congestion and allergies, potentially avoiding any blockages in the eustachian tubes.
- Stay Awake during Takeoff and Landing: Being awake helps your body naturally manage pressure. Resting at these times may decrease the chances of achieving proper pressure balance.
Techniques for remaining calm and entertained during a flight
Diversion is a potent tool for dealing with tinnitus. Consider diverting your attention with stimulating distractions such as audiobooks, comforting music, or brain teasers to shift your focus away. Meditation apps and breathing exercises can also help ease flight-related stress and lessen your awareness of tinnitus.
Before your trip, aim to get quality sleep and stay hydrated. Steering clear of caffeine or alcohol on the day of travel might also help lessen symptoms related to the ears. If you depend on hearing aids, consider wearing them during your flight – they can help restore a more natural hearing experience and potentially decrease the impact of any internal ringing or buzzing sounds.
Talk with a professional if tinnitus impacts your ability to travel
If tinnitus regularly makes flying uncomfortable, it’s worth consulting with a hearing specialist. A comprehensive assessment can identify the underlying cause of your tinnitus and lead to targeted recommendations– including custom travel strategies or treatment options to manage flare-ups more effectively.
Arrange a consultation to assess your ringing in the ears symptoms now.