Which preflight measure helps prevent middle ear barotrauma?

Which preflight measure helps prevent middle ear barotrauma?

• A. Treat congestion before flight
• B. Fly with a full stomach
• C. Skip hydration
• D. Avoid decongestants

Answer: (A)

Preventing middle ear barotrauma hinges on the Eustachian tube being able to equalize pressure during ascent and descent. When congestion blocks this tube, pressure changes can’t be balanced, leading to painful pressure differences on the eardrum. Treating congestion before flight keeps the nasal passages and Eustachian tube more patent, allowing smoother pressure equalization as you change altitude. That preflight step directly reduces the risk of barotrauma. In contrast, measures like not addressing congestion don’t improve the tube’s ability to vent pressure, and avoiding decongestants would remove a common, effective way to support this process.

Preventing middle ear barotrauma hinges on the Eustachian tube being able to equalize pressure during ascent and descent. When congestion blocks this tube, pressure changes can’t be balanced, leading to painful pressure differences on the eardrum. Treating congestion before flight keeps the nasal passages and Eustachian tube more patent, allowing smoother pressure equalization as you change altitude. That preflight step directly reduces the risk of barotrauma. In contrast, measures like not addressing congestion don’t improve the tube’s ability to vent pressure, and avoiding decongestants would remove a common, effective way to support this process.