Can wearing earplugs help with motion sickness?
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Wearing earplugs during air travel is usually helpful. During takeoff and landing, rapid changes in external pressure can create a relatively large pressure difference between the inside and outside of the middle ear. When the aircraft ascends, the surrounding atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing altitude, while the internal pressure of the middle ear remains relatively higher, causing the eardrum to bulge outward into the external auditory canal. Be sure to rest adequately and avoid excessive fatigue.
Wearing earplugs during air travel is usually helpful. The specific reasons are as follows:
During takeoff and landing, rapid changes in external pressure create a relatively large pressure difference between the inside and outside of the middle ear. When the aircraft ascends, atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing altitude, while the internal pressure of the middle ear remains relatively high, causing the eardrum to bulge outward into the ear canal. During descent, the pressure inside the middle ear becomes relatively lower. This pressure difference across the eardrum increases its strain, which may lead to discomfort such as ear fullness, ear pain, and tinnitus. In more severe cases, damage to the eardrum can occur, accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, and hearing loss. Earplugs help maintain pressure balance between the inner and outer ear, reducing discomfort caused by changes in atmospheric pressure.
When traveling by any mode of transportation, avoid rotating your head abruptly or making sudden changes in body position. Get adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
