Causes and risk factors:
Due to imbalance in mid ear and environmental air pressure regulated by Eustachian tube in the ear is responsible for airplane ear.Airplane ear is mostly experienced during flying, scuba diving or while driving in mountains. Upper respiratory tract infection, allergies or middle ear diseases are certain conditions which can lead to airplane ear. Congenital blockage of the Eustachian tube is the other contributing factor.
Clinical presentations:
The patient complaints of discomfort, pain,heaviness or fullness in the ear during the ascend or descend of the flight.Ringing in the ear along with pain in one or both the ear is experienced. Headache, dizziness, diminished hearings are the other associated symptoms.
Diagnosis and investigations:
The history and symptoms given by the patient will help the doctor to come up to the diagnosis. An ENT specialist will conduct an examination of the ear. An audiometery test to determine the conduction of sounds is advised.
Treatment:
Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs and analgesic drugs are advised to relief the discomfort. Valsalava maneuver (it is forceful exhalation of air by closing of mouth and pinching of the nostrils) has found to be beneficial. In cases where the underlying middle ear diseases persist surgical intervention of myringotomy is needed.
