A passenger is complaining of ear discomfort. What is the first thing the flight attendant should recommend?

A passenger is complaining of ear discomfort. What is the first thing the flight attendant should recommend?

• A. Yawn, chew, or swallow
• B. Take medication
• C. Gargle with water
• D. Listen to music

Answer: (A)

The situation hinges on relieving ear discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes by helping the middle ear equalize with the outside air. The best first step is to have the passenger yawn, chew, or swallow. These actions activate the muscles around the Eustachian tube, opening it so air can flow between the back of the throat and the middle ear. When the tube opens, pressure in the middle ear equilibrates with the cabin, relieving pain and fullness quickly and safely without needing medicines or procedures. Taking medication isn’t the immediate fix and may not be appropriate without guidance, especially on a flight. Gargling with water doesn’t address the pressure difference in the middle ear, and listening to music doesn’t help with pressure equalization either. If symptoms persist or worsen after trying these quick relief techniques, seek medical advice after landing or notify the crew for further assistance.

The situation hinges on relieving ear discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes by helping the middle ear equalize with the outside air. The best first step is to have the passenger yawn, chew, or swallow. These actions activate the muscles around the Eustachian tube, opening it so air can flow between the back of the throat and the middle ear. When the tube opens, pressure in the middle ear equilibrates with the cabin, relieving pain and fullness quickly and safely without needing medicines or procedures.

Taking medication isn’t the immediate fix and may not be appropriate without guidance, especially on a flight. Gargling with water doesn’t address the pressure difference in the middle ear, and listening to music doesn’t help with pressure equalization either. If symptoms persist or worsen after trying these quick relief techniques, seek medical advice after landing or notify the crew for further assistance.