Ear Problems when Flying

[sharonov]

When I fly I've done everything possible to make my ears "pop", but sometimes I can feel the pressure build up until I'm terrified the drums will break.  I swallow, chew gum, hold my nose and about 10 other home remedies that people have suggested.  I also take sudafed.  But I still have the problem.  Any suggestions?   My first grandchildren (twins) have been born but they live across the country and I don't want to have to give up flying.

[Wear/a/Jimmy]

Standard recommedation is nose spray, aphrin etc, 30-45 minutes before flight.

[sharonov]

Thanks, Nancy.  I've tried earplanes and yawning almost constantly.   Still I sometimes feel as though my eardrums are about to burst.  

[Nancy T]

Some people use Ear Planes--a little spiral-like earplug-type thingie you can buy in drugstores, which are supposed to gradually adjust the pressure in your ear.

I tried them, but personally I have more luck with yawning almost constantly on ascent and descent. Yawning works perfectly for me.

Some people really do like the Ear Planes, though.

Nancy T.