I've had several ear infection and surgeries in both ears. This cause my tubes that equalize the pressure not to function properly. I have purchaesed Earplanes for my flights. My Question is would help to take an antihistamine or decongestate before flying.
Hi Cruisingal,
I know I am not the regular pharmacist on the board but with apologies let me try to help a little here. Not knowing the extent of your ear problems I believe that I would consult your doctor (preferably a EEENT specialist) for a more proper answer. Under normal conditions, I will recommend decongestants or gum chewing to equalize pressures.
My wife has had bad experiences with long flights, bad enough where her ears never equalized that well and her balance was off for several weeks. Good Luck.
I have bad allergies and have always used a nasal spray and a prescription allergy medication. I always take sudafed before the plane, it helps dramatically!
the decongestions work, i have also found that see a chiropractor who will adjust the ears help(its not bone so no worries in if you pay close attention its easy to leave to do it to yourself of others) i have also found that ear candling helps open and equalize the pressure before going on the flight see a professional due to surgeries spas and alternative therapist do it often, with decongestion watch time if flight short one might work, i generally take one an hour before boarding and and hour before landing.
Hi-
I too am interested to hear what "earplanes" are. Could someone help explain?
I mentioned my ear problems (usually only during descent) to my doctor and she prescribed a decongestant and suggested taking 3 or 4 Advil. I take the decongestant the night before the flight and the morning of the flight. I also always have nasal spray and use that just as we start to descend.
A friend of mind is an ex-flight attendant and she suggested asking the flight attendant to bring a cup of hot water. It helps to breathe in the steam. I'm sure I look silly, but I just stick my nose and mouth right over the top of the cup. I've asked for this twice and both times the attendants were very accomodating. However, if you ever try to keep your glass of soda or whatever, they explain that FAA rules require them to collect everything from the cabin prior to descent. I've explained that I have a problem with my ears during descent when asking for the water. So they must be taking pity on me. Whatever the case, all these tips have helped somewhat.
Bottom line is, I really try to get a direct flight--some times not possible though.
I know it's been a w hile since these posts were made, but for those who wanted to know what "ear planes" are, the are found in drug store in the section where ear stuff is (like ear drops...) and they are small rubber-like ear inserts that sort of screw into the ear to keep the canal open during flying. They come in two sizes for kids and adults. My 6 year old used them to fly and they worked great.
I may try the earplanes--never heard of them before. Chewing gum works pretty well for me, but sometimes I still have 20-30 min of pain with landings. I have taken decongestant before when I was congested to begin with, but not as a matter of course. Another thing to try. Thanks for the tips.
Sorry for bringing up such an old thread but I need advice .No matter what I use on flights I still have considerable ear problems that at times have lasted my entire vacation and beyond.I've tried chewing gum for the entire flight not giving myself the ability to eat food;earplanes for the entire flight ,not being able to listen to music ,the radio or watch a movie ;sudafed and similiar products.I've gotten advise from my internist ,my ENT ,etc. Now I am asking the advice of the people posting on this wonderful site.
Flying and Earaches
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