Ear Grommets

[George_of_the_Bungle]

G'day, was wondering whether there were any drivers out there that have had to have grommets inserted into there ears for barotrauma. I've had a condition for near on 3 months now where my eustachian tube (this is going back to HUFAC days) is partially blocked in one ear causing constant throbbing after flying everyday and being unable to equalise the pressure on one side.

After seeing 6 different doctors, 2 different specialists, numerous antibiotics, nasal sprays, ear drops (and being told by one bloke just to pierce my ear drum with a pin) nothing has worked. I have still been cleared to fly as nothing has changed to balance nor hearing but still stuck with this persistent throbbing after flying. I have been told the last resort was to insert grommets into the eardrums, with no guarantee of the condition improving:ugh:.....so is there anyone out there who has gone through the same ordeal? Did the grommets do the trick? Any regrets with having them inserted?


Cheers

George

[Short_Circuit]

The grommets are only a temporary measure used often on children.
Once removed or if they fall out themselves, the ear drum heals normally.
If nothing else has worked it would be worthy of a try.
BUT see your Doctor and ask if it will interfere with headset ops.
Try this web site for some further info.

http://www.medicinenet.com/ear_tubes/article.htm (http://www.medicinenet.com/ear_tubes/article.htm)

[VH-XXX]

If you've got throbbing, you might be feeling the effects of prolonged noise as in normal without gromets - you could try using ear plugs under year headset. I use ear plugs under my DC ANR's at all times. Doesn't cause problems other than having to turn up the radio. I also find that it increases the clarity of the received transmissions and makes the stereo clearer with more base.

[chode1984]

I had grommets inserted as a kid but I was too young to really understand and have never really asked about it but it did the trick for me. Sorry I can't really explain what it cured me of but I fly everyday and have never had a problem.