Reactions to flying

Hi Jan, 

I can only say from my experience flying wasn't a problem, unless you have issues with flying, eg anxiety it shouldn't make the problem any worse, perhaps if there is some turbulence it may not help but I was ok.

The airport is a different matter but I made sure I did a few supermarket trips the week before so I was more used to the noise and similar environment. Get through to the departures lounge as quick as possible and try and find the quietest place, perhaps inside a coffee shop?

Good luck!

Hi Jan

I just purchased a pair of Bose noise cancelling headphones (earbud type not the over the ear cups). I haven't tried them yet, flyig to the states next month. Engine noise tends to increase my tinnitus. I've tired them at home and they definately work. Hopefully they will keep the tinnitus at bay on the flight.

I have vestibular problems which have left me with vertigo (room spinning etc), tinnitus, hyperacusis and profound hearing loss in one ear. This all occurred in December and I was anxious about our family holiday which involved a long haul flight from UK to Bali. My consultant gave me some tablets to help manage the vertigo (they are the equivalent of stugeron) which I took 2 hours before the journey and 8 hours in). He also gave me some bucastem, which is fast acting stemitil that you dissolve in your gum if you get nausea. I also bought an Earpeace ear plug for my deaf/sensitive ear, and Bose over the ear noise cancelling headphones.

The flight out was absolutely fine, and there was only one moment when I came out of the loo after a bit of turbulence when I couldn't stand up due to a brief bout of vertigo.

I also informed the airline before flying, and made sure that the cabin crew were aware of my challenges. They were great.

The airports were a challenge as I find bright lighting and busy places a little unbalancing, but my family were great at taking turns to walk with me.

I have had different experiences flying. On one occasion terrible earpain on desent, like a hot dagger driven through my ears - was left very deaf for a few hours. I also cried on the flight it was so painful. Other times felt unconfortable ear pressure but not too bad. I have usually felt a bit disorientated until later the following day - so you do need to double check you have your passport, money and all your baggage with you throughout the journey.

Flying can certainly be a problem for people with sinus problems so if you also have this I would consider travel by train. Doctors have advised sucking on boiled sweets, swallowing hard frequently and very gentley blowing down your nose whilst pinching your nose to equalise ear pressure (esp. during take off and decent). Also recommended is using a tablet like sinutab (1 hr before flying and 1 during the flight). You could speak to your GP about these techniques and if they would be helpful for you.

Having had labyrithitus and currently vestibular neuritis I wouldn't risk flying at the moment - only if my balance felt fairly stable as I find flying (and other travel motion) disorientating. I have always suffered from travel sickness since childhood but for some reason I am always ok on the train. 

I also find the small regional airports much easier to navigate, calmer, and even enjoyable.

I Hope you enjoy your holiday together.