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When is an ear or sinus block most likely, and how is it best prevented?

Choices

  • ✓ During descent; best prevented by not flying with a significant coldcorrect

    Equalizing is hardest on descent, and congestion is the main risk factor.

  • During climb; best prevented by flying faster

    Blocks are most troublesome on descent, and speed is not the fix.

  • On the ground; best prevented by chewing gum before engine start

    The problem arises with altitude change, not on the ground.

  • During cruise; best prevented by using oxygen

    Level cruise involves little pressure change, and oxygen does not equalize the ears.

Why

Equalizing middle-ear and sinus pressure is hardest during descent. Flying with a cold or congestion is the main risk, so avoiding flight while congested is the best prevention.

FAA source: PHAK Ch. 17 / middle ear and sinus blockbrowse the reference library →

This is taught in When Your Senses Lie: Disorientation, Motion Sickness, Ears and Night Vision — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.

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