Why do my ears hurt anytime I am on a airplane?

Why do my ears hurt when I am in an airplane?

• Answer:

  Airplane ear is a condition that causes pressure on the eardrum and parts of the middle ear. This pressure occurs when the air pressure inside an airplane is not the same as the air pressure in the middle ear.CausesAccording to the Mayo Clinic, airplane ear is more likely to occur while an airplane climbs after takeoff or while an airplane descends before landing because of rapidly changing atmospheric pressure.Risk FactorsIndividuals with small eustachian tubes such as infants and toddlers, individuals with a middle ear infection and people with sinus congestion caused by a cold, allergies or a sinus infection have an increased risk of developing airplane ear.PreventionPeople use self care techniques to prevent airplane ear such as yawning and swallowing while an airplane takes off and lands, staying awake during an airplane's ascent and descent and using over the counter decongestant nasal sprays.SymptomsAirplane ear sufferers may experience a feeling of ear fullness, diminished hearing and pressure or pain in the ear.When to See a DoctorPeople should see a doctor if airplane ear symptoms last longer than a few hours or if they become severe.Source:http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/airplane-ear/DS00472