Yes, babies' ears can hurt when flying.
Changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort or pain in the ears of babies and young children. This happens because the air pressure in the middle ear needs to adjust to the changing cabin pressure. For kids, especially babies and young children, the sensation can be odd and even scary, though it's a common, normal part of flying. This discomfort is related to pressure changes in the air space behind the eardrum (the middle ear).
Why Do Babies' Ears Hurt When Flying?
The middle ear is an air-filled space behind the eardrum. During flight, as the plane ascends or descends, the air pressure changes. The Eustachian tube, a small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, is responsible for equalizing this pressure. If the Eustachian tube doesn't open properly, pressure builds in the middle ear, causing pain or discomfort.
Babies are more susceptible to ear pain during flights due to a few reasons:
- Narrow Eustachian Tubes: Babies have narrower Eustachian tubes than adults, making it harder for the pressure to equalize.
- Horizontal Tubes: Their Eustachian tubes are also more horizontal, which makes drainage less efficient.
- Inability to Clear Ears: Babies cannot voluntarily equalize pressure by yawning or swallowing like adults can.
How to Help Prevent or Alleviate Ear Pain in Babies During Flights
While you can't completely prevent discomfort, here are some strategies to help minimize ear pain for babies during air travel:
- Nurse or Bottle-feed During Takeoff and Landing: The act of sucking and swallowing can help open the Eustachian tubes and equalize ear pressure.
- Offer a Pacifier: Similar to nursing or bottle-feeding, sucking on a pacifier can encourage swallowing.
- Keep Baby Awake During Ascent and Descent: If possible, try to keep the baby awake as swallowing occurs more frequently when awake.
- Consult a Pediatrician: If your baby has a cold or ear infection, consult with a pediatrician before flying, as they may be more prone to pain.
Remember, while the sensation can be uncomfortable, it's a temporary condition. These steps can make the flying experience less painful and more enjoyable for your baby and you.
