16-Hour Drive vs. 3-Hour Flight — What's Best for Tinnitus / Hyperacusis?

[LilCC]

I have tinnitus and hyperacusis, they are both pretty mild, borderline severe.

I am planning on traveling to Pennsylvania from Florida. That's about a 16-hour drive and a 3-hour flight.

Which option should I go with? I'm just afraid of flying or driving making my conditions worse.

Thank you all.

 

[Stacken77]

I guess it all depends on how loud the airplane is and where in the plane you're seated. It's usually considered to be quieter in the front of the plane than in the back due to the placement of the engines. Setbacks and damage is directly influenced by exposure time and noise volume, but I'm not experienced enough to say what is worse than the other. 16 hours compared to 3 hours seems like a lot though.

In any case, make sure that you wear deeply inserted foam earplugs with some good earmuffs on top, e.g. Peltor X5A. That should help you lower the risk of a setback.

All the best,
Stacken

 

[Wrfortiscue]

I plan to fly to Vegas soon and yeah I'm a bit worried lol.

 

[MindOverMatter]

@LilCC, easy answer, imo.

FLY! You'll be fine with decent ear protection.

 

[MBH]

I did a 13-hour drive to Myrtle Beach and back. I don't have hyperacusis. And I have also flown to Myrtle Beach. I used the neck piece and wrap it around my ears --- a nice little cushion.

My flight was quiet. Depends on airline.

I personally like to drive, I'm just not a fan of flying. I would like to make a bean bag piece for the ears.

 

[Mike O]

Never had an issue with flying or driving but my tinnitus is not alcohol induced.

 

[dan]

Check out my Airbus 321Neo thread.

A forum member is kindly willing to take decibel readings.

I am hoping this is a tinnitus friendly aircraft.