Passive Technique and Decongestant
These techniques can passively help open the eustachian tubes [3] that are in the ear and reduce feelings of fullness or clogging. Examples of passive techniques include:
- drinking water
- yawning
- chewing gum
- swallowing frequently
Before traveling, using a decongestant may help prevent mucous membrane swelling, which can put additional pressure on the ears. For a lengthy flight, the University of California, Berkeley advises taking an oral decongestant one hour prior to takeoff and another dose one hour prior to touchdown. The most prevalent moment for ear pressure issues is during an airplane’s descent.
There is a vast assortment of decongestants available online, along with countless consumer reviews.