I was put under to have the tubes put in and the same for the one he replaced. I have no idea why or even if it would hurt except the Dr wanted me out because he said pain and much of it. maybe when he put the tubes in they let the air between my ears escape. LOL Dave, what type of driving are you talking about?? I drove myself to all of my treatments including rads and chemo. It was miserable but I had no choice. All interstate so if you are talking driving your car, it is possible for you to drive. But a semi I would exclude for sure.