Plugged Ears

George,
I forgot to mention that we also take Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine
hydrochloride) before each dive. It does help to clear the nasal
without any drowsy effect. Because of its drying effect, we try to
drink plenty of water before and right after each dive to reduce the
chance of decompression sickness. The antihistamines work to reduce
swelling in damaged eardrums and also help with sleeping especially on
a diveboat. For flying, Rick takes Sudafed every so often before a
flight but only when he is not the PIC. With two pilots in the family,
we want to play safe.

Hai Longworth