why?When you get on an airplane, your ears hurt ... what is the preventive method?"Ear removal" can also damage your ears.

　When you get on an airplane, your ears always hurt, and even after getting off, you feel clogged.There seems to be a disease called "Aeronautical otitis media", but please tell me the cause, symptoms, and preventive measures.

　My name is Komachi, a cat.We will solve your troubles quickly.We asked Professor Toshifumi Sakata (ENT) of Fukuoka University.

　Q. Why does ear pain occur?

　A caused by changes in atmospheric pressure.First, let's explain from the ear structure.There is a "eardrum" in the back of the ear, and the space in the back is "middle ear".The thin "Eustachian tube" that extends from the middle ear is connected to the back of the nose = illustration.

　The middle ear contains a small amount of air, and the air passes through the Eustachian tube to keep the external pressure and the air pressure of the middle ear constant.When the plane rises or descends due to takeoff and landing, the pressure changes rapidly, but if the Eustachian tube is clogged at this time, the adjustment cannot be adjusted, and the eardrum is pulled by the pressure difference, causing discomfort.The same happens for high -rise elevators and Shinkansen tunnels.

　The main symptoms are that the ears are clogged, the sound of the sound, and some people hurt behind the ears and ears.If you have a mild symptom of about a day, you can not say that you are sick, but if you have painful pain, you may have otitis media.If you have tinnitus or dizziness called "Keen", consult an otolaryngology.

　Q What kind of treatment do you receive?

　A. Pass the air from the nose to the Eustachian tube, or a small hole in the eardrum, and return the pulled eardrum.It usually heals in about a week, but it takes more cases where water is accumulated in the middle ear.

　Q What is the precautionary measure?

　A. If the mucous membrane is swollen due to a cold or rhinitis, the Eustachian tube is clogged and the pressure cannot be adjusted, so the point is to treat the symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion in advance.Lack of sleep and hangover can also cause swelling.

　In the cabin, lick the candy when rising or descending, or drinks drinks small.This is because swallowing movement makes it easier for the Eustachian tube to open.It is also effective to open your mouth wide with yawning.The "ear removal" that picks up your nose, close your mouth and breathe into your ears is not recommended for those who are used to it because it will damage your ears if the pressure is too strong.

　Q earplugs for airplanes are sold.

　A: There is a type that allows the ears to be completely blocked and the barometric pressure little by little with a small hole.The fundamental cause is in the Eustachian tube, so it is difficult to completely prevent pain, but if used properly, you can relieve symptoms.

　Thank you for your help.

　● Earplugs that reduce pain

　Earplugs for airplanes are sold at travel goods sections.Depending on the material, the wearing feeling is different, and there are disposable and one that can be used repeatedly.The price varies from several hundred to several thousand yen.

　DKSH Japan (Tokyo )'s "Sirencia Flight Air" (1188 yen) = Photo = is a type that can be used repeatedly.The company explains that "adjustments are adjusted slowly in small holes and reduces ear pain."

　Earplugs are worn before the pressure changes, that is, before the plane starts to rise or descend.It is important to adhere to the ear hole without gaps.Take it slowly so that sudden pressure changes do not occur when removing.

= 2017/08/30 Nishi -Nihon Shimbun morning edition =