i have the MOST intense earpain on airplanes?

Question

they aren't your normal ear-popping pain. i've tried every trick in the book: popping my ears, chewing gum, sudafed, ear plugs, and anything else you can think of. it's not just the take-off or landing. it's the ENTIRE flight. 7-8 hours of non-stop throbbing ear pain. it's only in my left ear, my right is just fine. i've been to the doctor, but they don't see anything wrong. i don't know what to do. my dad told me it might be my ear canal being too small or something, or something wrong with the sack behind the ear drum. the pain is to the point where i'm crying and can't think of anything but the pain. it throbs, like a knife in my ear that keeps twisting. does anyone have any idea of what might be wrong with my ear?

yes i've tried many different ear plugs, none have worked. earplanes have worked halfway through one flight, then the pain leaked in somehow and i was miserable the rest of the flight=[

the problem isn't normal because these things that work for other people don't work for me. and it isn't just descending, which most people complain about, it's right after take-off and non-stop the whole flight. so bad that my dad even gave me some jack daniels to try to numb down the pain.

Answer 1

Better to consult a good ENT Specialist. Have you tried good ear plugs?

Answer 2

The fact that it is only one side makes it unlikely it it a genetic issue. Chances would be that at least some times your other ear should be in this.

It can be the result of an inner-ear infection. Not that you have one now but they tend to leave permanent damage and if that is the case it may be just what is the problem.

There is no real cure as the damage done by an operation to remove the problem may result in the same problem ...most likely even bigger.

Take a sleeping pill and hope for the best. Good luck.

Answer 3

It certainly could be a "genetic" issue. We humans aren't nearly as symmetrical as we think we are. It's very possible to experience eustachian tube dysfunction in one side while the other side is just fine.

The eustachian tube, which connects the back of your throat to your middle ear cavity, regulates pressure in your middle ear as atmospheric pressure changes. When the eustachian tube isn't functioning correctly pressure in the middle ear can build and cause extreme discomfort.

Try equalizing pressure by holding your nose and blowing GENTLY to help the eustachian tube open.

Allergies or sinus problems can sometimes be at the root of the issue. You could try using an over-the-counter antihistamine/decongestant an hour before your flight.

As you said though people typically experience pain during ascent or descent because of the change in cabin pressure. The fact that you're experiencing pain the entire flight might indicate some other problem. As Swamy suggested, it might be best to consult an Ear-Nose-Throat doctor.

Answer 4

Yes I believe that it is a small ear canal. I would ask for a second opinion from your docs. Also the altitude that you fly at might make a difference.