FLYING AND YOUR CHILD'S EARS

Children often have trouble with pressure changes at takeoff and landing. The pain and pressure will almost always go away in a few minutes. If your child has a cold or ear infection, the discomfort may be greater.

Your doctor may suggest not flying if your child has an ear infection or a lot of fluid behind the eardrum. Children who have had ear tubes placed should do fine.

Some tips to prevent or treat ear pain:

• Have your child chew sugar-free gum or suck on hard candy when taking off and landing. It helps with ear pressure. Most children can learn to do this at about age 3.
• Bottles (for infants), breast-feeding, or sucking on pacifiers can also help prevent ear pain.
• Give your child plenty of fluids during the flight to help unclog the ears.
• Avoid letting your child sleep during takeoff or landing. Children swallow more often when they are awake. Also, waking up with ear pain can be frightening for the child.
• Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen about 30 minutes before takeoff or landing.
• Use nasal spray or drops before takeoff or landing.

Ask your doctor about using cold medicines that contain antihistamines or decongestants.

EATING OUT

Try to maintain your normal meal and sleep schedule. Ask that your child be served first (you can also bring something for your child to munch on). If you call ahead, some airlines may be able to prepare special kid's meals.

• Encourage children to eat normally, but realize that a "poor" diet won't hurt for a few days.
• Check food for safety (see traveler's diarrhea).

ADDITIONAL HELP

Many travel clubs and agencies offer suggestions for traveling with children. Check with them. Remember to ask airlines, train, or bus companies and hotels for guidance and assistance.

For foreign travel, check with embassies or consulate offices. Many guide books list organizations that help travelers.

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Review Date: 11/12/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)