Airline travel can bring discomfort, especially when dealing with ear pressure changes, a phenomenon known as “airplane ear.” This condition occurs when the air pressure in the middle ear doesn’t match the external environment, often leading to painful ear popping during flight ascents or descents. A viral video shared by Kentucky mom Shelby Heiskell has introduced an effective, yet lesser-known, hack to relieve this discomfort—a “hot cup” technique shared by a flight attendant.
Shelby, who was flying home to Kentucky after Thanksgiving in California, faced excruciating ear pain exacerbated by a recent viral infection. While experiencing the painful sensation of her ears popping mid-flight, a flight attendant came to her aid with a simple but effective remedy—a hot, damp washcloth inside a disposable coffee cup. Shelby placed the cup over her ear, and immediately felt relief from the intense pressure.
In a viral TikTok video that garnered over 6 million views, Shelby explained her relief, describing the pain as “excruciating” and feeling like her “eardrum was going to explode.” Thanks to the flight attendant’s clever hack, Shelby experienced instant soothing as the steam from the towel likely helped open her Eustachian tube, equalizing the pressure in her ear. Though the method didn’t completely cure her temporary hearing loss, it eased the unbearable pain and allowed her to relax.
How the “Hot Cup” Hack Works for Airplane Ear
Medical professionals explain that airplane ear occurs when the pressure inside the middle ear and the outside environment becomes unbalanced. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, helps adjust the pressure to prevent discomfort. However, congestion from allergies or illnesses can block this tube, making it harder to relieve the pain.
According to Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist with the Allergy & Asthma Network, the steam from the hot cup likely opened up the Eustachian tube, providing much-needed relief. The heat and moisture from the towel helped relieve the pressure and reduce the ear pain many passengers experience.
Alternative Ways to Prevent Airplane Ear
In addition to the hot cup trick, several other strategies can help prevent ear discomfort during flights. Social media users who responded to Shelby’s video recommended using decongestants like Sudafed before flying and nasal sprays like Flonase to ease congestion. Others suggested using special earplugs designed for air travel, such as “Ear Planes,” which help regulate the pressure in your ears during takeoff and landing.
Flight attendants also chimed in, confirming the effectiveness of the hot cup method and recommending it for children and infants, who are more susceptible to ear pressure pain due to their smaller Eustachian tubes.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re frequently experiencing ear pain while flying, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Dr. Parikh advises individuals to treat congestion or allergies before flying and suggests using over-the-counter nasal sprays or allergy medications to open up the airways. In cases of persistent ear pain or hearing issues, it’s important to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions.
In conclusion, the viral “hot cup” hack could be a game-changer for those suffering from ear pressure pain on flights. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, this simple trick might be the relief you’ve been looking for.
Source: FOX News
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