What issues can excessive cabin pressure cause for passengers?

Excessive cabin pressure can lead to ear discomfort or barotrauma due to the pressure differential between the cabin environment and the pressure in the ear. As the aircraft ascends or descends, the change in altitude can cause the air pressure in the cabin to rise or fall more rapidly than that in the body's air-filled spaces, such as the middle ear. This results in the eustachian tubes not being able to equalize the pressure properly, leading to discomfort and potentially damaging the ear structures.

This condition manifests as a feeling of fullness in the ears, pain, or even temporary hearing loss. Barotrauma can occur if the pressure change is severe, leading to more serious complications such as ruptured eardrums. Overall, understanding the effects of cabin pressure on the human body is crucial for ensuring passenger comfort and safety during flights.