Media Coverage: Dr Asiya Maula Advises Parents on Preventing Ear Pain During Flights

Dr Asiya Maula, Private GP at The Health Suite, has shared expert advice in a national parenting feature warning against relying on viral social media hacks to relieve children’s ear pain during flights.

As a “hot cup” trick gained popularity online, Dr Maula explained the science behind why ear pain occurs during take-off and landing, particularly in young children.

“The middle ear is connected to the back of the nose and throat by a small passage called the Eustachian tube, which helps equalise pressure.”

She highlighted that children are especially prone to discomfort because their anatomy makes pressure changes harder to manage.

“In children, these tubes are narrower and less efficient than in adults.”

Rather than relying on unproven viral remedies, Dr Maula recommends simple, evidence-based techniques to help equalise ear pressure safely during flights.

For older children, she advises encouraging activities that promote swallowing and open the Eustachian tube.

“Older children’s sore ears can be eased by drinking water through a straw, sucking a sweet if age-appropriate, or chewing gum.”

These actions help naturally balance pressure in the middle ear, reducing discomfort during take-off and landing.

Dr Maula’s advice reinforces the importance of choosing safe, medically supported strategies over social media trends, helping parents make air travel more comfortable for their children while avoiding unnecessary risks.

Click here to read the complete article “Doctor warns parents against trying this trick for easing sore ears on flights” in RollerCoaster.