An Eustachian tube block is the real reason for ear discomfort or popping ears. Putting cotton plugs in the ear will not help. Then what can be done to mitigate this discomfort during flights?

Popping your ears isn’t your only option ... Afrin is a powerful decongestant that can open your Eustachian tubes. When used appropriately, just in these settings, it is effective and safe.

This makes the air in your Eustachian tube push against your ear drum until suddenly the air is released, which makes that popping sound which none of us like. Harkirit’s top tip to help you pop ...

Surgeon Mr Powell added: "When the eustachian tube does not work properly, this can lead to symptoms such as fullness in the ear, discomfort, popping or clicking, and importantly hearing loss.