For individuals who deal with tinnitus, air travel can be a source of anxiety, as the flight might exacerbate their ear discomfort, adding to the usual pre-trip anxieties about getting to their final destination. The increased noise inside the airplane, fluctuations in air pressure, and the anxiety related to flying can all result in a worsening or more bothersome experience of tinnitus. By perceiving the impact of air travel on your ears and taking proactive measures, you can considerably decrease distress and make your approaching flight a lot more pleasant.
What is tinnitus and why does it flare up in the air?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound without any external source. Some individuals experience a continuous ringing sound, while others perceive buzzing, clicking, whooshing, or static noises.
While tinnitus itself isn’t a disease, it’s often a symptom of an underlying health concerns such as:
- Hearing Loss: Traumatic head injuries or extended exposure to extreme sound levels can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear.
- Ear Infections or Obstructions: Fluid buildup and infections can trigger or exacerbate tinnitus.
- Certain medications can be ototoxic to the inner ear, causing or aggravating hearing and balance problems.
- Benign Tumors: Growths including acoustic neuromas may affect hearing and balance.
Tinnitus can be perceived in two ways: as a personal experience that only the individual can hear, or as a sound that can be recognized by a medical professional using specialized listening equipment. When flying, a number of factors can intensify the symptoms, making travel more uncomfortable for those impacted.
Exploring the link between airplane ear and tinnitus
“Airplane ear” is a phrase used to describe the sensation of fullness, pressure, or muted hearing that often accompanies flying. It occurs when the eustachian tubes– which equalize pressure in the middle ear– working to adapt to altitude changes during take of and landing. If these tubes fail to open efficiently, pressure imbalances can develop, leading to discomfort or even pain.
For individuals with tinnitus, this pressure imbalance can amplify their symptoms or introduce new ones. The stress and sensory stimulation of air travel can increase the problem.
How air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms
Air travel can worsen tinnitus symptoms because of several factors.
- Jet Engine Noise: High decibel levels inside the cabin, especially near the engines, can intensify sensitivity in the ears and exacerbate tinnitus.
- Pressure Changes: During takeoff and landing, the rapid shifts in cabin pressure can affect how the eardrum and surrounding structures vibrate, which may trigger or heighten tinnitus.
- Stress and Exhaustion: The anxiety of travel, combined with poor sleep or dehydration, can increase your experience of tinnitus and make it feel more intrusive.
In-flight strategies to alleviate ringing in the ears.
Taking a few basic actions can go a long way toward easing the strain on your ears during air travel:
- Using noise-canceling headphones can considerably 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 soothing music or white noise, which can mask tinnitus.
- Opt for a tactical seating option: If feasible, opt for a seat towards the front of the plane rather than near the engines. This location is generally calmer and better suited for a tranquil journey.
- Steer Clear of Standard Earplugs: These types of earplugs can possibly intensify the issue by putting additional pressure on the inner ear, aggravating existing symptoms. Instead, consider using plugs that are made for regulating ear pressure during air travel.
- Chew Gum or Swallow Regularly: These actions help keep the eustachian tubes open, allowing pressure to equalize more efficiently.
- Use a Decongestant: Think about using a decongestant, either in oral or nasal form, before your flight if your physician recommends it. This can help reduce nasal congestion and allergies, potentially preventing any blockages in the eustachian tubes.
- Remain Alert During Ascent and Descent: Staying awake allows your body to naturally adjust to air pressure changes. Resting at these times may decrease the chances of achieving proper pressure balance.
In-flight distractions and relaxation solutions
Refocusing one’s attention can be a very effective strategy for coping with tinnitus. Bring entertainment options like audiobooks, soothing playlists, or puzzles to keep your attention elsewhere. Practicing meditation using apps and doing breathing exercises can decrease anxiety related to flying and reduce your focus on tinnitus.
Prior to your trip, be sure to rest well and stay hydrated. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol on travel day can also decrease ear-related symptoms. And if you wear hearing aids, don’t hesitate to wear them on the plane– they may help you hear more naturally, reducing the prominence of the internal ringing or buzzing.
Talk with a professional if tinnitus impacts your ability to travel
If tinnitus routinely makes flying unpleasant, it’s worth consulting with a hearing specialist. A comprehensive assessment can determine the root cause of your tinnitus and lead to targeted advice– including custom travel strategies or treatment options to deal with flare-ups more successfully.
Arrange a consultation to assess your ringing in the ears symptoms now.
