How can I help prevent barotitis media?

You are very unlikely to get barotitis media if you do not make any large changes in altitude. You may want to avoid flying and scuba diving if your nose is congested or if you have a sinus or ear infection. If you are going to change altitude, you can use decongestants to increase the flow of air to your ear. Filtered earplugs can also reduce the risk of barotitis media by decreasing the rate at which pressure outside the ear changes. Drink water, but not alcohol and caffeine.