, a narrow passage connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, is responsible for equalizing pressure. Mayo Clinic +1 Ascent: As the plane climbs, cabin pressure drops; air in the middle ear expands and usually escapes easily. Descent: This is often the most difficult phase. Cabin pressure increases quickly, and air must move into the middle ear to balance it. If the Eustachian tube is blocked or inflamed, the eardrum is sucked inward, causing a "clogged" sensation, muffled hearing, or pain. Healthy Hearing +4 Common Symptoms Feeling of fullness or stuffiness in one or both ears. Muffled hearing or slight hearing loss. Ear discomfort or sharp pain. Popping, clicking, or crackling sounds. Mayo Clinic +4 Immediate Relief & Prevention Techniques To keep your ears open during a flight, you can stimulate the muscles that open the Eustachian tube: Swallow, Yawn, or Chew: Frequently swallowing, chewing gum, or sucking on hard candy helps open the tube. Valsalva Maneuver: Pinch your nostrils shut, keep your mouth closed, and
Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and gently try to blow air through your nose. clogged ear from flying