Travelers’ Secret Hack For Immediate Airplane Ear Relief Uncovered

Airplane cabin with passengers and in-flight entertainment screens.

Travelers have discovered a surprisingly simple trick to alleviate airplane ear, which has quickly gained viral attention.

At a Glance

Airplane ear results from unequal air pressure in the middle ear during takeoff and landing.
A flight attendant’s “hot cup” method provides quick relief for ear pain.
Shelby Heiskell’s viral TikTok highlighted this ear pain relief trick using coffee cups and hot water.
Many travelers attest to the effectiveness of this method despite lacking medical endorsement.

Understanding Airplane Ear

Airplane ear occurs when there’s a mismatch in air pressure between the middle ear and the environment, common during takeoff and landing. Passengers often experience discomfort due to these rapid altitudinal changes. Common remedies include chewing gum, yawning, or drinking something to balance pressure. Audiologists suggest EarPlanes for effective pressure equalization. For children, feeding during takeoff or landing can help alleviate ear pressure.

Dr. Purvi Parikh explains that these ear pressure changes can cause severe discomfort, and solutions are much sought after. When the Eustachian tube doesn’t open adequately, passengers feel ear pressure and pain.

Here's how to pop your ears on a plane. https://t.co/uuceDsF4BD

— Condé Nast Traveler (@CNTraveler) April 23, 2024

A Viral Solution: The Hot Cup Method

Shelby Heiskell shared her experience of ear pain during a flight descent, amplified by congestion. A flight attendant introduced her to the “hot cup” method, involving placing a freshly steamed, hot, damp washcloth inside a disposable coffee cup and applying it over the ear. This technique relieved her pain instantly but did not remedy temporary hearing loss. Heiskell described this method as a lifesaver on TikTok, drawing significant attention for its effectiveness.

Dr. Purvi Parikh affirmed the method’s basis, suggesting the steam helps to open the Eustachian tube, reducing pressure and pain. This method, also suggested for babies and toddlers, shows how minor adjustments can offer quick relief.

How to pop your ears on a plane: 9 tricks for relieving ear pressure, according to medical experts. https://t.co/QbDx2uR97B

— Condé Nast Traveler (@CNTraveler) December 11, 2023

Alternative Methods and Considerations

While the “hot cup” method is not medically endorsed, its popularity has prompted discussions about alternative and emergency tricks for ear relief. Other strategies include swallowing, using filtered earplugs, or consulting specialists about more permanent solutions like ear tubes. One traveler commented, “A flight attendant showed me this trick when I was 7 and she saw me sobbing with pain. Life saver!” illustrating the method’s long-standing application. Additional remedies, such as steaming a bathroom to unclog ears, have been suggested for persistent cases.

Comments on the viral TikTok video are filled with testimonials from those who have tried the hack themselves. User experiences parallel Shelby Heiskell’s, with others also noting quick relief from airplane ear. Suggestions such as using lollipops or hard candy add to the repertoire of DIY solutions. Ultimately, these methods highlight the range of small adjustments that can make travel more comfortable for everyone.