ENT consultant explains how to stop your ears 'popping' when you fly

An ENT consultant says the uncomfortable “ear popping” sensation during flights is usually ear barotrauma, caused when pressure in the middle ear doesn’t match cabin pressure—most often during take-off and landing. Sanjay Verma, ENT Consultant at LivingCare Group, explains that the middle ear is connected to the back of the nose by the Eustachian tube, which normally opens to balance pressure and creates the “pop.” When it can’t open quickly enough—due to a cold, allergies (including hay fever), sinus congestion or earwax buildup—pressure pulls on the eardrum and can cause blockage and mild pain. He points to practical steps including swallowing, yawning or chewing gum, gentle Valsalva, staying awake on descent, pressure-regulating earplugs, and discussing decongestants or antihistamines with a pharmacist if congestion is present.