Many experienced air travelers use a decongestant pill or nasal spray an hour or so before descent. That will shrink the membranes and make ears pop more easily. Travelers with allergy problems should take their medication at the beginning of the flight for the same reason. Decongestant tablets and sprays can be purchased without a prescription. However they should be avoided by persons with heart disease, high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, thyroid disease or excessive nervousness. Such persons should consult their physicians before using these medicines. Pregnant women should likewise consult their physicians first.