Ask your family doctor or primary care physician (PCP) about taking over-the-counter decongestant pills and nasal sprays. Use of decongestants is not recommended for certain medical conditions so it is very important that you consult with your doctor first.
Take the decongestant pill one hour before descent to give the medication time to take effect.
One hour before descent gently blow your nose to prepare to take the nasal spray. This will clear your nasal passages for more efficient absorption of the medication.
Sit upright and place the nozzle into your nostril. Sniff while squeezing the bottle quickly.
Repeat Step 4 with the other nostril.
Wait three to five minutes, then blow your nose gently.
Repeat Steps 3 to 6 until you have completed the recommended dose as directed on the label or by your doctor.
Stay awake during descent so you can clear your ears if they get blocked.
Chew gum or suck on hard candy to promote swallowing. You can also try yawning. Your Eustachian tube may open from swallowing or yawning.
Pinch your nostrils, take a breath through your mouth, close it, and gently blow as if you are going to blow out your nose. You will hear a pop and immediately feel relief if the Eustachian tube opens.
Repeat Step 3 several times during the landing and afterward until your ears remain unblocked.
