Common problems for airline crew
Cabin pressure changes during ascent and descent can cause ear barotrauma when pressure cannot equalise properly. Colds, upper respiratory infections and significant nasal congestion can make this more likely.
- Blocked or muffled ear after landing
- Ear pain during descent
- Cold or nasal congestion before/after flying
- Ear pressure that does not settle normally
- Sinus pressure associated with a respiratory infection
- Possible ear infection
- Advice on whether symptoms need in-person examination
How it works
- Describe your symptoms — complete the short clinical form, including when the symptoms started and whether they are related to a recent flight.
- I contact you — I review the request and contact you personally on WhatsApp as soon as possible, usually during daytime hours in Spain, to arrange the consultation.
- We speak online — we discuss the symptoms, relevant medical history, current medication and warning signs.
- Pay afterwards — the consultation is €55. Payment is made during or immediately after we speak. If medication or a private medical certificate is clinically appropriate, it is sent after payment.
Some ear problems need an in-person examination
Ear symptoms cannot always be diagnosed safely online because examining the eardrum may require an otoscope. If your symptoms suggest that an in-person ear examination, hearing assessment or specialist review is needed, I will tell you and direct you to appropriate care. Depending on severity, the following need prompt or in-person medical assessment:
- Sudden or major hearing loss
- Severe or worsening ear pain
- Blood or discharge from the ear
- Significant vertigo
- Severe systemic illness
- Symptoms following significant pressure injury that are not improving
For cabin crew and aviation professionals
This is a general medical consultation, not an aviation medical fitness assessment. I do not issue online certificates declaring someone fit to fly or fit to work. If your airline requires occupational-health, aviation-medical or AME clearance, you should follow your employer’s procedure. Private sick notes or certificates stating that you are unwell may be issued when clinically justified.