Can pilots fly with tinnitus?

Acoustic neuromas, benign tumors that grow in the inner ear that can cause hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and disequilibrium similar to vertigo, also are disqualifying until reviewed by the FAA. Meniere's disease is a particular problem for pilots because of the quick onset and severity of symptoms.



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Again, FAA hearing standards allow the use of BOTH ears to pass, not just EACH ear. A pilot could be completely deaf in one ear and still meet FAA standards. This may present problems in the cockpit using an earpiece in one ear for radio communications and spoken voice for crew cockpit communications.

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In some cases, changes of pressure do have small and temporary effects on tinnitus. It may change the frequency, and in some cases may temporarily increase or decrease the loudness. Most people with tinnitus do not experience these effects.

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Pilots need hearing protection because the sound levels within the cockpit can reach between 80 to 95 dB. Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally considered safe. Any sound at or above 85 dBA is more likely to damage your hearing over time, therefore pilots should wear hearing protection.

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Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy - Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy will stimulate frequent swallowing which helps equalize air pressure. Valsalva maneuver - With a mouthful of air, close your mouth and pinch your nostrils shut. Gently force air out until ears your ears pop. This opens the Eustacian tubes.

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The FAA allows the use of implants for medical certification, but you will need FAA authorization before resuming your flying privileges.

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If at all possible, it's best to avoid flying when you or your children have an ear infection or a sinus infection. These block the Eustachian tubes, placing additional pressure on the eardrum. Whenever there is continual, increased pressure on the eardrum, it can rupture.

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Chewing is another practice that helps pilots to relieve ear popping. Just like yawning or swallowing liquids, chewing also stretches areas around the ears, equalizing the pressure inside the ear. Chewing gum, gummy bears, and other chewy candies can help alleviate tension in the ears caused by altitude changes.

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Earplugs, combined with active noise reduction headsets, provide the maximum level of individual hearing protection that can be achieved with current technology. Hearing is second only to vision as a sensory mechanism to obtain critical information during the operation of an aircraft.

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On some long-haul flights, airlines may provide amenity kits to economy passengers. In our economy cabin, we have a lot of options available to customers, including pieces to help you freshen up such as toothbrush kits, earplugs, and eye shades for sleep, said Ben Whatman, Air New Zealand's in-flight service manager.

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