Can a flight cause an ear infection?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Dr Lots-o'watts
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    Cause Flight Infection
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SUMMARY

Flying can indeed create conditions that lead to ear infections due to pressure differentials during altitude changes. The discussion highlights that fluid build-up in the inner ear, often exacerbated by flying, increases the risk of infection. Specific cases mentioned indicate that unpressurized flights and significant pressure changes can force mucus containing bacteria into the inner ear via the Eustachian tube, potentially resulting in painful infections.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Eustachian tube function
  • Knowledge of pressure differentials in aviation
  • Familiarity with sinus infections and their causes
  • Basic concepts of fluid dynamics in the human body
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the anatomy and function of the Eustachian tube
  • Learn about the effects of altitude changes on the human body
  • Investigate preventive measures for ear infections related to flying
  • Explore treatment options for sinus infections and their complications
USEFUL FOR

Individuals prone to ear infections, frequent flyers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in the effects of altitude on health.

Dr Lots-o'watts
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I understand how a pressure differential caused by an altitude change can cause temporary pain, but can it actually cause a lasting infection? There are two suspected cases in my entourage.
 
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Anything which can cause a fluid build-up in the inner ear raises the risk of infection. Ever been on an unpressurized flight?... heh, my ears didn't feel too great, and while it didn't directly infect me, it created the conditions for infection to set in.
 
After several long deep dives, I ended up with a really bad sinus infection, which went into my inner ear. Ouch, talk about painful!
 
Any change of pressure from low to high can force some mucus with bacteria into inner ear through Eustachian tube, that can end in infection.
 

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