How Do Changes in Cabin Pressure Affect Our Health?

Some of the physiological changes we experience during air travel are mainly caused by changes in cabin pressure. To stay comfortable while flying, it is important to understand how these pressure changes can affect our health and what we can do to minimize discomfort.

What Is a Change in Cabin Pressure?

As an aircraft gains altitude, the air pressure and oxygen levels outside the plane decrease rapidly. To ensure that passengers can travel safely, the aircraft cabin is pressurized using a specially designed system.

• Cabin Pressure Adjustment: Cabin pressure is generally maintained at an altitude equivalent to approximately 1,800 to 2,400 meters above sea level, regardless of the aircraft’s actual cruising altitude.
• Changes During Takeoff and Landing: As the aircraft changes altitude, the system gradually adjusts the cabin pressure. These are the moments when our bodies experience the most noticeable pressure differences.
• Difference Between Inside and Outside: The difference between the cold, low-pressure air outside and the artificially pressurized cabin environment can cause air trapped in certain body cavities to expand or contract.

How Does Cabin Pressure Affect the Body?

When atmospheric pressure changes, the closed or partially enclosed air spaces in our bodies are directly affected.

• Ear Pressure and Fullness: The Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment. During rapid pressure changes, it may struggle to do so, causing a feeling of blocked or full ears.
• Sinus Pressure: If the sinus passages are congested, trapped air may expand and cause pressure or pain around the face and forehead.
• Headaches: Pressure fluctuations and slight differences in oxygen levels may trigger mild to moderate headaches in some sensitive individuals.
• Adjustment Period: The body works to adapt to the new pressure conditions within a relatively short period, and mild fatigue may occur during this process.

How Can You Equalize Ear Pressure on a Plane?

To relieve pressure differences in the ears, it is helpful to activate the Eustachian tubes.

• Swallowing and Yawning: Swallowing and yawning can help open the Eustachian tubes, allowing pressure in the middle ear to equalize with the surrounding air.
• Chewing Gum: Chewing gum increases saliva production and encourages frequent swallowing, which can help relieve ear pressure.
• Drinking Water: Taking small sips of water encourages regular swallowing and may quickly reduce the sensation of pressure.
• Valsalva Maneuver: You can try gently exhaling against a closed nose and mouth to help equalize pressure in the ears. This should be done gently rather than forcefully.

Who May Be More Sensitive to Changes in Cabin Pressure?

Certain health conditions and age groups may make some passengers more sensitive to pressure changes.

• Children and Babies: Their Eustachian tubes are generally narrower and shorter than those of adults, which can make pressure equalization more difficult.
• People with Sinus or Ear Conditions: Passengers with chronic middle-ear problems or sinusitis may have more difficulty equalizing pressure if their passages are blocked.
• People with Colds or Allergies: Swollen tissues caused by a cold, flu, or allergies can restrict airflow and contribute to discomfort or pain.
• People with Chronic Health Conditions: People with significant heart, lung, or cardiovascular conditions may need to discuss their individual situation before flying.

What Should You Do Before a Flight to Minimize Discomfort from Cabin Pressure Changes?

Preparing properly before your flight can help reduce the risk of discomfort.

• Stay Hydrated: The dry air inside an aircraft can contribute to dehydration. Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to help keep your body and mucous membranes hydrated.
• Take Care of Your Sinuses: If you have a cold or allergies, talk to a healthcare professional about appropriate treatments, including whether a nasal spray may be suitable for you.
• Consider Your Health Condition: If you have recently undergone ear surgery or have a severe upper respiratory infection, consider discussing your travel plans with a healthcare professional.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you have an ongoing medical condition, getting professional medical advice before flying can help you travel more comfortably and safely.

What Should You Do During Takeoff and Landing?

Because altitude changes happen most rapidly during takeoff and landing, taking a few precautions can help reduce discomfort.

• Maintain a Comfortable Position: Sit upright with your seat belt fastened to remain comfortable and help maintain clear airways.
• Swallow Frequently: Don’t wait until your ears feel blocked. Swallow regularly or chew gum throughout takeoff and landing.
• Breastfeeding Babies: Breastfeeding or offering a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing encourages swallowing and may help reduce ear discomfort.
• Ask for Assistance: If you experience severe or unbearable ear pain, inform the cabin crew and ask for assistance.

When Should Changes in Cabin Pressure Be Taken Seriously?

Symptoms caused by cabin pressure usually resolve on their own after the flight. However, some symptoms may require medical attention.

• Persistent Pain: Severe or worsening ear pain that continues for hours after landing.
• Hearing Loss: Noticeable hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or a sensation of fluid in the ear that persists after landing.
• Severe Dizziness: Significant loss of balance or symptoms of severe vertigo.
• Seek Medical Advice: If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or another appropriate healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why do ears become blocked on an airplane? Ear blockage occurs when the Eustachian tube cannot equalize the pressure difference between the cabin and the middle ear quickly enough.
• How can you reduce ear pressure during takeoff? Yawning, swallowing, chewing gum, or gently performing the Valsalva maneuver can help equalize pressure.
• Why do ears hurt during airplane descent? During descent, cabin pressure increases rapidly. If the pressure in the middle ear does not equalize, the resulting pressure difference can place stress on the eardrum and cause pain.
• Can cabin pressure cause headaches? Yes. Pressure changes can affect the air in the sinuses, and the slightly lower oxygen levels in the cabin may contribute to headaches in some people.
• How can you relieve blocked ears during a flight? Sipping water, using a pacifier or chewing gum, yawning, and swallowing can help. Specialized pressure-regulating earplugs designed for air travel may also provide relief for some passengers.