Flying vs. Long-Distance Driving

[Rintintin]

Hi all,

I'm looking for some advice... is it better for Tinnitus to fly, or take a long distance drive in a vehicle, if you wish to journey somewhere? My vehicle is fairly quiet, but there is some wind noise.

Thanks,

Rintintin

 

[Bobby B]

Light Car wiht road noise can be 75db
Less if the car is heavy - Old Cadillacs or large Mercedes are the best

Aircraft cabin 85 while cruising and more on take off and climb

So driving is far less noisy
Keep windows closed and you will be fine

Wiht windows open or flying I would wear earmuffs all the the way in both situations and no have to worry

 

[Ecip]

I haven't flown yet since tinnitus onset, but I find that flying while wearing ear plugs is a more comfortable experience in general, especially if the aircraft is a turboprop.

 

[NGC891]

Hi,
I am agree with @Ecip, the jet plane frequencies (white noise) are easier to protect with earplug than car frequencies (low).

 

[linearb]

I've done a bunch of flying with earplugs, no problems. Also motorcycles with earplugs. I use earplugs in noisy cars, too.

 

[AnxiousJon]

I believe ear pressure is the main concern for flyers with tinnitus and other ear conditions, not noise.

 

[LadyDi]

Yep, @AnxiousJon said it: Noise isn't the issue. Barotrauma is.

Having said that: Flying in a properly pressurized commercial jet -- as long as you don't have a severe cold or sinus/ear infection, or eustachian tube dysfunction -- usually is safe. I got my tinnitus from an airplane flight but I still fly now, although I take precautions. Just search "flying" here at TT and you will find plenty.