Should I Get My Ear Wax Blockage Sorted Out Before Flying?

Earwax problems can cause discomfort and hamper hearing at any time, but it should be a particular priority to get this resolved before flying on holiday, as a blockage can cause great distress when flying as the air pressure changes.

Lots of people have some exciting plans for this summer. While thousands of English and Scottish football fans have flown across the Atlantic for the World Cup, they represent just some of the Britons flying overseas this summer.

Research from Airbnb has indicated that most Britons heading overseas will be heading off on short-haul trips to Europe. The study found that:

•       The top ten trending destinations were in Europe
•       Emerging destinations have proved very popular, with online searches up by 273 per cent for Novalja in Croatia and 92 per cent for Himare in Albania
•       Top trending destinations across Europe for Airbnb users include Como in Italy, Altea in Spain and Chessy in France

How Does Earwax Cause Problems When Flying?

However, even short-haul flights can be unpleasant if you have a blockage caused by excess earwax, which makes it wise to ensure you get earwax removal treatment before you go.

The reason for this is all to do with how your ear helps adjust to the changes in air pressure involved when flying.

At cruising altitude, the pressure is set to simulate what you would experience at 2,500 metres above sea level, which is much higher than any UK mountain. This means the pressure will change from that experienced as you board the plane.

These changes, which will be felt as you ascend and also as you descend towards landing, produce pressure changes often felt in the ear.  

What Are The Symptoms Of A Blocked Ear During A Flight?

Normally, a passage known as the Eustachian tube will help to ease the effects of changing pressure by passing air between the middle ear and the jaw. However, if the area is clogged up with earwax, this can be prevented. Effectively, it blocks a pressure release valve.

The results of this can be:

•       Pain and discomfort
•       Dizziness
•       Reduced hearing
•       Hearing issues may continue after you have landed

It is when the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly that your ear can go pop, which many people commonly experience, but an earwax blockage can be a more severe case of this.

By having the earwax removed, this problem should not occur. An unclogged Eustachian tube will do its job, passing the air out of the middle ear and ensuring the pressure is stabilised. You will be spared a miserable flight and its after-effects.

In any case, whether you are flying off overseas or just visiting somewhere on a British staycation, the simple fact is that any time you have earwax issues, you can suffer pain and discomfort as well as impaired hearing. Why let this detract from your holiday?

Instead, make getting earwax problems sorted as much a priority as getting any jabs you need and ensuring your passport is up to date. By doing so, you can enjoy what you hear as well as what you see when you go on holiday.