Glue Ear and Flying

I am a 20 year old female who has been suffering from terrible ear and throat pain for the past few days, so today I attended a GP appointment and was informed that I have Glue Ear, which is now being treated with a decongestant and an antibiotic...
The only issue is that I am due to fly back to the UK tomorrow to attend university, it isn't a long flight (about an hour), but I'm worried about the negative effects this may have on my ears.

Would it be relatively safe to fly?

Thank You

[Wear/a/Jimmy]

relatively safe to fly?

Well, there are about 3 things you can do at this point..

1) dont fly
2) use a nasal spray about 40 minutes prior to the flight.
3) have your ear drum perforated (by a doctor) prior to the flight.

Option #3 is probably not going to happen.

But if you do fly...  it may hurt for a good bit, I wish you luck.


AuD ccc-a

[hollybaby123]

Hi there, I have glue ear too and im flying in 5 days.
Im really afraid because my doctor said theres a risk of my eardrum perforating on the plane, and that has happened me before and was extremely painful.

How were your ears on your flight?

I would appreciate your feedback as soon as possible, xxx

[OHNS2010]

Hi,

Most doctors would agree that avoiding flying when you have an active sinus or ear infection is the best way to prevent pain and possible complications, but if flying is a necessity, decongestants can be used in an attempt to overcome some of the blockages to air circulation. Both systemic (taken orally) and topical (nose drops or nasal sprays) can be used to treat congestion. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be used to help control discomfort.

While you're flying, chewing gum or swallowing frequently, particularly during ascent and descent, may provide some relief.

Regards
OHNS2010

[ENTMD]

Pretty good chance of having problems if you do indeed have that diagnosis.  The nasal decongestant sprays are pretty harmless to try, but if they actually worked we'd be recommending them a lot more...