Self imposed medical grounding question

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D2O
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Self imposed medical grounding question

Postby D2O » Fri Aug 31, 2012 1:17 pm

I have just experienced one of the worst bouts of flu ever, but came out of it with an ear infection which resulted in 2 burst ear drums.
I can hear about 60%, my balance is fine, and nothing hurts, but my concern is pressure on my ears at altitude. When would it be safe for me to venture the skies again? Will the headphones not keep the pressure down enough?
I have had burst eardrums due to ear infections before, and it normally comes right after a period of around 2 to 3 weeks, but to wait that long....eish, I haven't flown in a loooong time :( .
Any advice?
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Tumbleweed
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Re: Self imposed medical grounding question

Postby Tumbleweed » Fri Aug 31, 2012 2:20 pm

Go see an ENT specialist.

After hassling with pharmacists and GP's with a 6 month intermittant ear infection I went to a ENT specialist. He sorted me out inmediatly as in 2 minutes relief and told me that I would have never come right with what was previously dispensed. I flew that afternoon.

You'll be flying pronto.
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irenehawk
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Re: Self imposed medical grounding question

Postby irenehawk » Thu Oct 04, 2012 10:09 am

My rule is if it is bad enough for you to want to take action (meds) for it then. Don't fly.

Why not phone the aviation institute that did your medical and ask them.
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D2O
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Re: Self imposed medical grounding question

Postby D2O » Thu Oct 04, 2012 11:02 am

It's fine now. Holes closed up, and all ok. I even went flying recently.
I'd say through this experience, 2 weeks seems to be a good recovery period, but it depends on the severity, and the person.

It is a valid question though, as I doubt it'll have influence on your ability to fly, as it does not affect your balance, and your hearing is still good enough to communicate on the radio, but it may be extremely uncomfortable at altitude, and may cause permanent damage. Then again, I'm no medical expert.

Personally, I think it's just safer to ground yourself, and if unsure when it's ok to take to the skies, consult an aviation doctor.

Thanks for the input though (^^)
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