Hearing loss i am a 40 year old female. i traveled to australia over two months ago with a pretty bad cold. my right ear was in a state and grew worse with the pressure changes, so much in fact, it was causing me great pain and i was hearing loud pops.

I : I am also afraid of doctors, and I am one... I think your primary doctor can look in your ear to see if there is any damage (likely not, but the pressure problems can cause ear drum rupture--which would then relieve the pressure). They may also be able to see fluid in the middle ear (behind the ear drum). This problem can lasr weeks after the flight. If this continues, get a full hearing test and see an otolaryngologist (ent). Some medicines may speed your recovery: decongestant, nasal steroids, oral steroids (controversial), afrin. You may eventually need tubes.