At Auz Audiology, in San Fulgencio, La Marina, Alicante, many people ask us why they feel the need to yawn when travelling by plane, going up a mountain or even driving through a road tunnel. Although it may seem curious, this gesture has a very important function related to hearing health and pressure balance in our ears.
Inside the ear there is a small structure called the Eustachian tube, whose function is to connect the middle ear with the back of the nose and throat. Its main role is to equalise the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. When pressure changes suddenly, this tube can become temporarily blocked, causing a blocked-ear sensation, discomfort or a temporary reduction in hearing.
This is when yawning helps naturally. By opening the jaw widely and moving certain muscles, we encourage the Eustachian tube to open and allow air to circulate correctly. As a result, the pressure balances out and that uncomfortable sensation in the ears disappears.
In our daily experience, we also see that many people chew gum, swallow saliva or drink water during flights and journeys to relieve this pressure. All these movements help activate the muscles in the area and support the normal function of the ear.
At Auz Audiology, we always explain that, although this sensation is usually normal, it should not be ignored if the discomfort is frequent or lasts too long. Some people have more difficulty balancing pressure due to allergies, colds, sinusitis or problems related to the middle ear.
In addition, pressure in the ears can also temporarily affect balance and hearing perception. This happens because the ear is involved not only in hearing, but also in our spatial orientation and body stability.
That is why we recommend paying attention to any persistent change in hearing, blocked-ear sensation or ongoing discomfort. Detecting possible alterations in time can help prevent complications and improve everyday wellbeing.
At Auz Audiology, we work every day to help our patients better understand how their hearing works and how small details in the body can influence it. We believe that prevention and information are essential for looking after hearing health in the long term.
