27/07/2026
Many people assume painful, blocked ears during or after flying are simply something they have to put up with. While it’s normal to feel a brief change in pressure during take-off and landing, persistent pain, difficulty “popping” your ears, muffled hearing or symptoms that linger long after your flight may point to Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).
The Eustachian tubes are small passages that connect the middle ear to the back of the nose. Their job is to equalise pressure on either side of the eardrum. When they don’t open and close properly, pressure can build up, causing discomfort, pain, a feeling of fullness, popping sounds or reduced hearing.
Although ETD is common in children, adults can experience it too, particularly during air travel, with allergies, sinus problems or after an upper respiratory infection.
The good news is that Eustachian tube function can be assessed. At JHB Audiology, we use specialised middle ear tests to evaluate how well your ears are functioning. If we identify concerns that require medical management, we can refer you to an ENT specialist for further assessment and treatment.
You don’t have to accept painful flights as “normal”. If your ears are causing you problems, it’s worth having them checked.
🌐 www.jhbaudiology.co.za
📞 (011) 875-1750
📍 Fourways Life Hospital
📍 Netcare Olivedale Hospital