Fortunately, there are several ways to relieve and prevent clogged ears from flights:

Eustachian tube is a narrow passage connecting your middle ear to the back of your nose and throat. Its job is to equalize pressure. During a flight: Descent: As the plane lands, atmospheric pressure increases quickly. Vacuum Effect: If the Eustachian tube stays closed, it creates a vacuum in the middle ear, stretching the eardrum inward and causing that "clogged" sensation. Blockages: Congestion from a cold, allergies, or sinus infections can swell the tube, making it much harder for air to pass through. Immediate Self-Care Techniques If your ears are currently clogged, try these methods to open the Eustachian tubes: The Valsalva Maneuver: Pinch your nostrils shut, keep your mouth closed, and gently try to blow air through your nose. Do not blow too hard, as this can damage the eardrum. The Toynbee Maneuver: Pinch your nose and take several sips of water to swallow. Active Moving: Swallow frequently, yawn, or chew gum to engage the muscles that open the tubes. Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of water can help reduce swelling if congestion is the root cause. Prevention for Future Flights Use Decongestants: Take an oral decongestant or use a nasal spray (like oxymetazoline) about 30–60 minutes before takeoff and landing. Filtered Earplugs: Products like "EarPlanes" contain a ceramic filter that slows down the pressure change against your eardrum. Stay Awake: Do not sleep during descent. You need to be awake to swallow and yawn actively as the pressure changes. When to See a Doctor Most cases of airplane ear resolve within a few hours or days. However, seek medical attention if you experience: Severe, agonizing pain. Fluid or blood draining from the ear. Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) that won't go away. Vertigo or severe dizziness. Hearing loss that persists for more than 48 hours. How long has your ear been clogged

When a plane changes altitude rapidly (especially during takeoff and descent), the air pressure in the cabin changes faster than the air pressure inside your ear. If your Eustachian tube doesn't open wide enough or often enough to equalize that pressure, the eardrum is pushed inward or outward, creating that "clogged" feeling and muffled hearing. Immediate Fixes: How to "Pop" Your Ears