How to Unblock Infants' Ears on Flights

The thought of flying with a baby strikes fear in even the most experienced parent's heart. How to feed the baby, change her diaper and make sure she doesn't cry and irritate the people around you are all valid concerns. But above all, you want your baby to be safe and comfortable during the flight. Unfortunately, changes in air pressure as the plane changes altitude can cause pain in your infant's ears. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to help your baby feel more comfortable during the flight.

Things You'll Need

  • Bottle and formula or breastmilk
  • Pacifier
  • Infant pain reliever

Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your baby is well-hydrated before and during the flight. Feed her as often as possible. Airplane air is dry, which can thicken the mucus in the eustachian tubes, according to KidsHealth.org.

    • 2

      Feed your infant during takeoff and landing. This is the time when the changes in air pressure are most rapid. The sucking motion of nursing or pulling on a bottle will help equalize the pressure in her eardrums. Babies are safest in an infant seat on an airplane -- especially during takeoff and landing -- so even if you are nursing, try giving her a bottle of breast milk. If she is not hungry, give her a pacifier or encourage her to suck on your finger.

    • 3

      Keep your infant awake during takeoff and landing. Easier said than done, of course, but people -- babies included -- tend to swallow less when sleeping, and swallowing helps equalize the pressure in the ears.

    • 4

      Give your infant a small dose of pain reliever before the flight. This might help with any pain that occurs. Be sure to check with your doctor before giving your baby any medication, however. Very young infants may be too young for pain medication.

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