Article Travel Leisure Tip

Changes in pressure can temporarily block the Eustachian tube
causing your ears to 'pop' or to experience a sensation of fullness. To equalize the pressure
swallow frequently; chewing gum sometimes helps. Yawning is also effective. Avoid sleeping during descent; you may not swallow often enough to keep ahead of the pressure change. If yawning or swallowing doesn't help
use the 'valsalva maneuver':

* Pinch your nostrils shut
then breathe in a mouthful of air.
* Using only your cheek and throat muscles
force air into the back of your nose as if you were trying to blow your thumb and finger off your nostrils.
* Be very gentle and blow in short successive attempts. When you hear or feel a pop in your ears
you have succeeded. Never force air from your lungs or abdomen (diaphragm); this can create pressures that are too intense.

Babies are especially troubled by these pressure changes during descent. Having them feed from a bottle or suck on a pacifier will often provide relief. Avoid flying if you have recently had abdominal
eye or oral surgery
including a root canal. The pressure changes that occur during climb and descent can result in discomfort.

If you have an upper respiratory or sinus infection
you may also experience discomfort resulting from pressure changes. Postpone your trip if possible. (Check to see if your fare has cancellation or change penalties.) A final tip on pressure changes: they cause your feet to swell. Try not to wear new or tight shoes while flying.

Alcohol and coffee both have a drying effect on the body. Airliner cabin air is relatively dry to begin with
and the combination can increase your chances of contracting a respiratory infection. If you wear contact lenses
the low cabin humidity and/or consumption of alcohol or coffee can reduce your tear volume
leading to discomfort if you don't blink often enough. Lens wearers should clean their lenses thoroughly before the flight
use lubricating eye drops during the flight
read in intervals
and take the lenses out if they nap.

If you are permitted to buy bottled water and bring it on the plane (check before your fly)
get the biggest bottle you can carry. Some countries don’t allow you to carry a bottle of water through the security checkpoint – but you can purchase one in the terminal (at ridiculously higher prices). Even if you can buy the water at the terminal
doesn’t mean you can carry it onboard. Check
check and re-check.

If you take prescription medications
bring enough to last through your trip. Take along a copy of the prescription
or your doctor's name and telephone number
in case the medication is lost or stolen. The medicine should be in the original prescription bottle in order to avoid questions at security or Customs inspections. Carry it in a pocket or a carry-on bag; don't pack it in a checked bag
in case the bag is lost. Check with TSA on latest rules and regulations.