Introduction
A lot of people experience ear congestion, especially during or after air travel. This uncomfortable sensation can be caused by several factors, including pressure changes, earwax, infections or allergic reactions. In this guide, we will explore the reasons why we get ear congestion, how it can affect our hearing, and what methods you can use to treat it.
What is ear congestion?
A blockage in the ear occurs when the ear canal is clogged or partially blocked, which can affect hearing. Blockages in the ears can lead to hearing loss, a feeling of pressure, or even dizziness. They can occur for several reasons, and symptoms vary depending on the cause.
Common causes of ear congestion
There are several factors that can cause ear blockages. Some of the most common causes include:
Earwax – Earwax is a natural substance produced by small glands in the ear canal. When too much earwax is produced, it can cause blockages in the ear. This often happens when earwax cannot escape from the ear due to build-up or improper removal using cotton buds.
Pressure changes – During air travel, the pressure in the cabin changes, which can lead to a feeling of congestion in the ear, also called airplane ear or Ear Barotrauma. This happens because the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nose and throat, cannot equalise the pressure quickly enough. This can lead to a feeling of pressure or blockage in the ears, which we often experience during take-off and landing.
Infections and inflammation – Inflammation of the ear canal or middle ear can also lead to ear congestion. This often occurs when bacteria or viral infections affect the ear, causing swelling and fluid build-up that can block normal airflow in the ear.
Allergic reactions – Allergies can cause swelling in the Eustachian tubes, preventing pressure equalisation in the ears. This can lead to a feeling of congestion in the ear, especially during periods when pollen or other allergens are in the air.
Hearing aids – Some people who use hearing aids may experience blockages in their ears if the device does not fit properly or if a lot of earwax builds up in the ear canal.
Symptoms of ear congestion
When you have a blocked ear, you may experience several symptoms, which can vary depending on the cause. Typical symptoms include:
A feeling of pressure in the ear
Reduced hearing or muffled sounds
Dizziness or balance problems
Ear pain or tenderness
Fluid or fluid build-up in the ear
Ringing sensation in the ear (tinnitus)
Ear Barotrauma during flight – Why does it occur?
Flying is one of the most common situations in which people experience ear blockage. When the plane takes off and lands, the pressure changes rapidly and it can be difficult for the Eustachian tubes to equalise the pressure quickly enough. When this happens, it can lead to a feeling of pressure in the ear. Some people may have more sensitive Eustachian tubes than others, making them more prone to experiencing this problem.
Another cause of ear congestion during air travel is that changes in humidity and dryness in the cabin can irritate the ear canal, making it easier for earwax to build up or for inflammation to develop.
How can you equalise the pressure in your ears during flight?
When you experience Ear Barotrauma during flight, you can try to equalise the pressure using some simple methods:
Chew/suck on something – Sucking on a lollipop, chewing gum or drinking something can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalise the pressure in your ears. It may therefore be a good idea to bring something to chew on for the flight – if you are unsure about the rules for food on the plane, you can read more about food in your hand luggage here.
The Valsalva manoeuvre – This involves closing your mouth and nostrils and trying to breathe out through your nose, as if you were trying to blow your nose. This can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalise the pressure.
Jaw movement – Moving your jaw up and down or back and forth can also help open the Eustachian tubes.
Avoid sleeping during landing – When you sleep, your Eustachian tubes are less active and it can be more difficult to equalise the pressure. Try to stay awake during take-off and landing and use the techniques mentioned above.
Treatment of ear congestion
There are several ways to treat ear blockages, depending on the cause:
Remove earwax – If the blockage is caused by earwax, it is important to remove the excess wax. You can use softening agents such as ear drops or lukewarm water to soften and remove the earwax. Avoid using cotton buds, as they can push the wax further into the ear canal.
Visit a doctor – If the blockages do not go away on their own, or if you experience pain or infection, it is important to seek professional help. A doctor can assess the cause and recommend treatment.
Treatment of allergies – If allergic reactions are the cause of your blockages, antihistamines or decongestants can help reduce swelling in the Eustachian tubes and relieve symptoms.
Earplugs – Earplugs can also help protect your ears during air travel or loud noises, although they do not remove the blockage in the ear itself.
When should you seek professional help?
You should seek professional help if:
The symptoms persist for more than a few days
You experience severe pain in your ear
You feel dizzy or have balance problems
You have fluid coming out of your ear
You have difficulty hearing
There are signs of infection, such as fever or redness in the ear
How can Refundmore help?
Unfortunately, Refundmore cannot help remove ear congestion, but we can help you get compensation for any inconvenience you may experience as a result of delayed, cancelled or overbooked flights. We specialise in air passenger rights and use our knowledge to ensure that passengers receive the compensation they are entitled to. If you have been affected by a delay of more than three hours, a cancellation with less than 14 days' notice, or if you have been denied boarding due to overbooking, Refundmore can help you obtain compensation for the inconvenience you have experienced.
How we handle your case
You create the case here
We assess your case
We contact the airline
If the airline does not accept the claim, we will take the case to court (we will also take care of all the work involved in the legal proceedings).
We will pay you the compensation as soon as we have received the money from the airline.
Please note: We only charge a fee if we succeed in obtaining compensation. Therefore, there is no financial risk for you.
Our legal team is ready to assess your case and communicate with the airline on your behalf, so you can just sit back and relax. Create a case in just 2 minutes - it won't cost you a thing.
Conclusion
A blockage in the ear can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but it is usually a temporary problem that can be treated with the right methods. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, you should seek professional help. And if you have experienced problems with flights, Refundmore can help you get compensation and reimbursement for any inconvenience you may have experienced.
Be sure to take the necessary precautions during air travel, such as equalising the pressure in your ears and avoiding harmful methods of removing earwax. If you are unsure of the cause of your ear problems, it is always best to seek help from a doctor to get the right treatment.
