Eustachian Trouble
 

decongestants that work.

The original technique described by Valsalva had little to do with clearing the ears, but I gather that it now also broadly covers closing the mouth and nose and forcing pressure up the tube. I had to do this (several times) for every decent for 40 years, with or without recent infections.

I assume that you have been treated with antibiotics.

If you are not able to equalize with a moderate pressure of this kind after 3 weeks, it does sound a little resistant to clearing up. If all else fails, you might be well served to have a grommet fitted. I have flown with a couple of guys that had a grommet for protracted periods, but this was in the UK.. I am not sure of the danger of infection via this device, but I imagine that swimming would be a problem.

My wife suffered terrribly with ear pain on descent for many years and various "cures" suggested by docs never worked really well. Then someone suggested Ear Planes = instant cure. Thing is that they allow her to hear so one imagines that pilots could use them?

Have you tried chewing gum during the descent. I rarely have any trouble clearing my ears but on the odd occaision this helps. I find a small piece works best (ie half a standard Wriggleys strip)

777 - 3 weeks does sound to be near the limit as to what sounds normal, but I'd be tempted to try the gum, before the surgeon !

Thanks for all the replies. My doc wants me to wait it out for another couple of weeks. If there is no improvement then temporary tubes may be an option.