If altitude changes cause ear discomfort, which action is recommended?

If altitude changes cause ear discomfort, which action is recommended?

• A. Valsalva Maneuver
• B. CPR
• C. Administer aspirin
• D. Rest in a chair

Answer: (A)

Altitude-related ear discomfort comes from a pressure difference across the middle ear. The Eustachian tubes normally equalize that pressure, but they can become blocked during changes in altitude. The Valsalva maneuver helps by gently increasing pressure in the throat, which pushes air through the Eustachian tubes to the middle ear and equalizes the pressure. Do this slowly and gently to avoid ear injury; if pain persists, is severe, or you have a known ear issue, seek care. Other choices don’t address pressure changes: CPR is for life-threatening chest emergencies, aspirin won’t relieve the pressure difference, and resting in a chair doesn’t help equalize ear pressure.

Altitude-related ear discomfort comes from a pressure difference across the middle ear. The Eustachian tubes normally equalize that pressure, but they can become blocked during changes in altitude. The Valsalva maneuver helps by gently increasing pressure in the throat, which pushes air through the Eustachian tubes to the middle ear and equalizes the pressure. Do this slowly and gently to avoid ear injury; if pain persists, is severe, or you have a known ear issue, seek care. Other choices don’t address pressure changes: CPR is for life-threatening chest emergencies, aspirin won’t relieve the pressure difference, and resting in a chair doesn’t help equalize ear pressure.