Flying with a swollen inner ear?

Are ear planes better than regular ear plugs to cope with pressure changes when flying?

• I have heard conflicting reports on weather foam ear plugs or the "ear planes" work better in reducing pressure during take off and descent. I would really like to know which works best from people who have tried both.

• Answer:

  Where did you get the idea that wearing earplugs can somehow reduce the air pressure on your ear?  Do you use similar plugs in your eustachian tubes?  If not, we now know why your ears hurt when you fly. Earplugs are helpful for reducing NOISE.