Ear Blocked After Flying May 2026

Most people struggle during landing. But a smaller group experiences reverse block during takeoff. If you have a bad cold, the expanding air in your middle ear can’t escape fast enough. This causes extreme pain and even temporary hearing loss until the pressure forces the tube open.

That is a very common and interesting phenomenon! The medical term for it is (or barotrauma ). ear blocked after flying

Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and gently try to blow out. You'll feel a soft "pop" as the tube reopens. (Don't do this forcefully if you have a bad infection). Most people struggle during landing

Here is the interesting science behind why your ear feels blocked after flying: close your mouth