Otitis in aerospace-aerotitis: A review

Abstract

Background: Aerotitis media is a painful disorder of ear which is experienced during ascent & descent of the flight, caused by rapid change in external pressure leading to discomfort, pain, hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo. It can also lead to permanent hearing loss. Objective Methods: Various research articles have been reviewed from different databases such as Google Scholar to study the various preventive strategies which can be taken to avoid this condition during flight. Result: Valsalva maneuver is helpful in decreasing the symptoms of aerotitis media and making passengers comfortable during the air travel. Conclusion: As aerotitis media is prevalent in ascent and descent of flight passengers, Valsalva maneuver and other preventive strategies shows beneficial effects on the symptoms of the condition through incorporating its principles.