Ear pain in flight: remedies
Short answer
Ear pain during a flight usually comes from pressure failing to equalise, especially during descent; swallowing, gentle yawning, and staying awake for landing may help.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Most troublesome phase
- Descent and landing, when cabin pressure changes again
- Simple measure
- Swallow or yawn gently rather than forcing pressure through the ear
Why flying can hurt
The middle ear contains air whose pressure must adjust as the aircraft climbs and descends. A blocked nose from a Common Cold or Sinusitis can make the connecting passage work less effectively. Infection or Earwax Buildup can add discomfort, so pain that continues after landing should not automatically be blamed on cabin pressure.
Before and during the flight
Swallow often, sip water, chew gum, or suck a sweet during descent. Try a gentle yawn; do not forcefully blow against a blocked nose. A filtered earplug may make pressure changes feel easier for some travellers. If you have an active ear infection or significant congestion, ask a clinician or pharmacist before flying. Do not share or start medicines without checking that they are safe for you.
When to seek care
Get medical advice for intense pain, fluid or blood from the ear, marked hearing loss, spinning dizziness, or symptoms that do not settle after the flight. Seek urgent help for facial weakness, severe headache with illness, or trouble breathing or swallowing.
Questions before travel
Ask whether congestion, infection, or wax could interfere with pressure equalisation, whether you should postpone travel, and which medicine—if any—fits your health history. Ask what to do if hearing remains muffled after landing.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can I sleep through landing if my ears hurt on flights?
Staying awake makes it easier to swallow and yawn while pressure is changing.
When should flight-related ear pain be checked?
Arrange assessment for discharge, substantial hearing change, dizziness, severe pain, or symptoms that persist after landing.
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.