Airline passenger news and views

On a recent trip back from the States, I suffered considerable discomfort with pressure within my ears. Whilst earplugs provided by cabin crew do help, they can be very uncomfortable. On this occasion, I had a cold to boot and so would be pleased to find something that actually fitted my ears and did not make them even worse!

Apparently, about one-third of fliers will feel ear pain or clogging due to changes in air pressure. The problem usually occurs when the air flowing through the ear's Eustachian tube becomes blocked. This can be very dangerous and the eardrum has been known to burst.

Thankfully, this did not happen to me, but I can tell you the experience was still very painful one. I tried in vain to ‘equalise’ but it was impossible. It explains why babies sometimes cry during takeoff and landing as their Eustachian tubes are often very narrow and restricts the air flow.

There are numerous different theories. Sucking a sweet is widespread but I do not honestly think it works. Apparently, swallowing or yawning is worth trying as this allows the muscles in the Eustachian tube to contract and open. At worst, nasal decongestant sprays are another remedy.

All I know is that it made for a very uncomfortable journey and one I do not want to repeat.