Why is it advised not to fly with a cold or ear infection?

Flying with a cold or ear infection poses significant risks primarily because both conditions can lead to inflammation of the Eustachian tube, which is crucial for equalizing pressure in the middle ear. During flight, especially during ascent and descent, changes in cabin pressure occur rapidly. If the Eustachian tube is inflamed or blocked, it can prevent proper ventilation of the middle ear, leading to discomfort, potential ear pain, and more severe complications like barotrauma. This inability to equalize pressure can also result in hearing issues and can exacerbate discomfort during the flight, creating a challenging situation for the individual.

Understanding this connection is important, as control of ear pressure is vital for maintaining comfort and safety during a flight. While dizziness and vision issues can arise from illnesses, the primary and most critical concern in this context is the impact on the Eustachian tube function related to pressure changes during flying.