Flying can be a stressful experience for anyone, but if you are living with tinnitus, you can face extra concerns when boarding a plane. As a tinnitus sufferer, you might be wondering whether air travel might worsen your condition.
This article explains what happens during a flight, and how air travel can affect tinnitus, and offers practical advice on managing airborne symptoms.
Understanding Tinnitus and Air Travel
Just to recap, let’s quickly chat about what Tinnitus is.
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears without an external source. In many cases, it is a chronic condition caused by damage to the inner ear or other underlying issues.
Many people report that changes in their environment and pressure can make the symptoms more noticeable. When it comes to flying, the cabin pressure, background noise, and altitude variations can all potentially influence how tinnitus feels.
Air travel involves significant changes in cabin pressure, which affects the inner ear. For someone who already experiences tinnitus, these changes might lead to a temporary worsening of symptoms.
Although research is still evolving, anecdotal evidence and some medical insights suggest that the changes in pressure can provoke or intensify the ringing, hissing, or buzzing sounds that characterize tinnitus.
How Air Pressure Changes Affect Your Ears
The inner ear is sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure.
During a flight, it undergoes several pressure adjustments as the aircraft ascends and descends.
One particular concern is barotrauma, which refers to the physical strain on the eardrum and middle ear as pressure differences occur. Barotrauma can lead to discomfort, pain, and sometimes a temporary increase in tinnitus symptoms.
Many passengers experience ear discomfort when flying. For the average traveler, these episodes might simply result in a blocked or slightly painful feeling.
However, for someone with tinnitus, the same experience might amplify existing sounds. This is because the ear is already working to compensate for internal damage or other issues. The rapid pressure changes found in planes mean that the inner ear might respond with increased sensitivity, making tinnitus louder during the flight.
Scientific studies have shown that barotrauma can occasionally trigger or worsen tinnitus, especially in individuals who are predisposed to ear sensitivity.
Although the body usually readjusts over time, the temporary discomfort and heightened ringing can be distressing. Understanding these impacts is the first step in taking precautions for a more comfortable ride.
Recommended Reading: Top 7 Tinnitus Home Remedies You Need To Know About!
What Happens To Your Hearing During a Flight?
During takeoff and landing, the aircraft undergoes the most significant changes in altitude and cabin pressure. At these times, the eustachian tubes in the ears work hard to balance the pressure inside and outside the middle ear.
If these tubes are not able to equalize pressure quickly, a condition known as ear barotrauma may occur. For someone with tinnitus, the combination of high-decibel engine noise and the stress on their eardrums could potentially worsen their symptoms.
While cruising at altitude, the cabin pressure is maintained at a level lower than sea level pressure. This constant state of lower pressure means that the ears are in a slightly altered environment compared to what they are normally used to on the ground. In this situation, the ears need to remain active in balancing pressure, which can sometimes lead to a persistent awareness of ringing or buzzing sounds.
The constant engine noise in the cabin represents another factor that might affect tinnitus. Though modern aircraft are designed to minimize sound, background noise can still contribute to discomfort, especially for those with hyper-sensitive hearing.
The low-level hum might blend with the internal noise of tinnitus, making it seem more pronounced. As a result, even a flight that seems smooth on the surface can bring additional challenges for someone managing this condition.
Pre-Flight Considerations for Tinnitus Sufferers
Before flying, it helps to take some steps to prepare your ears and overall health. Here are a few planning tips that can make the journey more comfortable and reduce the likelihood of an exacerbation of symptoms.
One of the first steps is consulting with your healthcare provider.
They can give personalized advice based on the severity of your tinnitus and any underlying conditions you might have.
Discussing travel plans can ensure that you are taking the proper precautions before boarding. In some cases, you might need to take a short-term course of medication or other treatments.
There are also practical measures that can help ease discomfort related to pressure changes. Here are a few strategies that may find useful:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and during the flight helps keep the tissues in your throat and ears functioning properly. Maintaining good hydration can assist with overall ear health.
- Practice Pressure-Equalizing Techniques: Techniques like yawning, swallowing, or using the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing while pinching your nose) can help your ears adjust to pressure differences.
- Avoid Loud Noises: Bring earplugs or noise-reducing headphones to help minimize extra noise in the cabin. This strategy can reduce the chance that external sounds interfere with how you perceive tinnitus.
- Rest Well Before the Flight: A well-rested body manages stress better, including the stress on your auditory system. Fatigue can make tinnitus seem louder, so getting a good night’s sleep is really important.
Strategies to Manage Tinnitus During Flights
Even with preparation, symptoms might appear during a flight.
If those do happen, then here are several tactics you can use to ease discomfort and manage tinnitus on board.
One simple yet effective approach is to use sound therapy.
Many travelers find that softly playing ambient sounds or white noise can help mask the tinnitus. Some airlines provide personal entertainment systems that include relaxing soundtracks, which might be helpful.
If you already use a sound machine or an app at home, consider loading it onto your phone or tablet for the flight. Even just a few minutes of calming nature sounds can distract your brain from the persistent ringing associated with tinnitus. This non-invasive method frequently offers relief to those who seek to balance external and internal sounds.
Of if you want you can check the portable white noise machine. One such machine is the Yogasleep Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine
You can get it from Amazon.com.
Another valuable tip is to practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques during the flight.
Techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can help you manage the stress that often accompanies tinnitus. When your body is more relaxed, the brain is less likely to focus on the intrusive sounds.
Some people also find relief by adjusting their seating.
Choosing a seat away from the engines, or in a part of the plane where cabin noise is minimized, might improve your overall experience. Even small details like the environment around you can influence how your hearing perceives background noise.
If you use hearing aids or sound amplifiers, it is important to check with an audiologist about any adjustments that might be needed during air travel.
In my case, with my Phonak Audeo, I can set different programs on my hearing aid. When I travel to the United States next, year, I will consider adding one or two more programs whilst flying.
Sometimes, settings that work well on the ground may need a slight adjustment when exposed to the unique conditions of flight.
Preparation and Mitigation Strategies Before Flying
Taking proactive steps before flying can help reduce the risk of exacerbating tinnitus. In addition to consulting your doctor, here are some all-in-one strategies to consider:
- Regular Checkups: If you frequently fly, consider regular checkups with an audiologist. They can monitor any changes in your condition and advise on the best practices during air travel.
- Customized Ear Protection: Look into earplugs or customized noise-blocking devices that are specifically designed for air travel. These devices can reduce the impact of sudden pressure changes while still allowing you to hear necessary announcements and communications.
I have written reviews on various ear plugs that you can buy. Check out my blog on Eargasm Vs. Vibes Vs. Loop Experience Earplugs – Which Is Best For You?
- Controlled Exposure: Gradually exposing yourself to controlled environments that mimic the effects of flying can sometimes help your body adjust. For instance, using a simulated pressure chamber might not be practical for everyone, but discussing options with your healthcare provider can open up new avenues for relief.
- Medication and Therapy: Some individuals benefit from medication that helps manage anxiety or inflammation in the ear. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another approach that has shown positive results by helping people manage the stress associated with tinnitus.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: General well-being plays a big part in how you experience tinnitus. Eating nutritious foods, getting enough exercise, and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol can all contribute to better ear health over time.
Another practical tip is to carry a written record of your tinnitus history.
If you need to consult with medical personnel during your travel, having clear information on past symptoms, treatments, and triggers can help ensure better care if an issue arises. Being proactive and informed helps build confidence in managing your health while flying.
Taking these steps not only helps you during the flight but may also contribute to a lower baseline of tinnitus symptoms over time.
Managing the condition with the help of professionals and a proactive approach makes a significant difference in overall quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common questions that often arise about air travel and tinnitus.
Question: Can flying actually worsen tinnitus?
Answer: Many tinnitus sufferers report a temporary increase in symptoms during and immediately after flying. The causes are linked to pressure changes, background noise, and the general stress of travel. However, these effects typically subside once the body readjusts to normal conditions.
Question: What steps can I take to reduce the impact of flying on my tinnitus?
Answer: Planning ahead is key. Use ear protection, stay well hydrated, and practice pressure-equalizing techniques. Checking in with your healthcare provider for personalized advice can also make a big difference.
Question: Are there specific products designed for travelers with tinnitus?
Answer: Yes, several products aim to provide relief during flights. For example, specialized earplugs, noise-canceling devices, and even apps that generate gentle ambient sounds can help mask tinnitus effects. It is best to test these before flying to determine which works best for you.
Question: Is it safe to fly if my tinnitus is severe?
Answer: Most individuals with tinnitus can fly safely. However, if your symptoms are severe or if you have additional ear-related issues, it is wise to consult an audiologist or healthcare provider before traveling. They can assess your condition and offer tailored advice or treatments that reduce risks during the flight.
Final Thoughts
The connection between air travel and tinnitus is not fully understood, but many people notice changes during flights.
The pressure differences, the constant hum of the engines, and the overall stress of flying can all impact your ear health temporarily. While these effects are usually short-lived, they warrant some attention if you suffer from tinnitus.
The key to a more comfortable flight is preparation.
Understanding how your ears react to pressure changes, using the right protective measures, and following the advice of healthcare professionals can help you take control of your symptoms. By planning and taking simple steps to manage the condition, you can travel with greater confidence.
The next time you plan to fly, consider these tips and strategies.
If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen after a flight, it might be helpful to re-assess your current management plan.
Keeping a travel diary that records your symptoms before, during, and after trips can be an effective way to identify specific triggers. In some cases, adjusting your treatment plan with the help of an audiologist might be necessary.
Remember that your health and comfort come first.
Even though flying may present challenges for those with tinnitus, careful planning and proactive strategies significantly reduce the issue.
With the right tools and mindset, you can continue to enjoy air travel without letting tinnitus control your experience.
At the end of the day, after you did the best that you could, as hard as it may seem, try to let go.
Don’t be hard on yourself. And try to enjoy the rest of your journey to wherever you are flying.
Wishing you many safe journeys.
Regards and Take Care
Roopesh