Glue Ear and Flying

[Smeeo]

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

[labradors123]

I have glue ear and have been using Otovent. Its a balloon with an attachment, really simple but effective. You attach the end piece which is a plastic ball type thing with a hole in it, to the balloon and blow it up, instructions come with it. Here are the steps I do.
1. Get a large glass of water.
2. Blow the balloon up with the attachment on and hold it
3. Take a mouth full of water
4. Hold one nostril closed with one finger
5. Put the plastic attachment to the other nostril and whilst the air is going
    into your nostril, swollow the water.
6.  You will feel the pressure and when you swollow after a good few times
     you should feel your ear popping a bit.

I have had ear glue fpr a year now, it does come and go, especially if ive had a cold but using Otovent for about three weeks sorts it out.

I would check first with your GP to make sure your ears are ok to use Otovent first. I bought this from Amazon and wouldn't be without it now.


Hope this helps

[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...

[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

[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

[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