Can I fly with seasonal allergies?

Bring a saline spray or mist for airplane travel, as dry plane environments can aggravate allergy symptoms. Keep car windows rolled up and the air conditioning on if traveling during high pollen or pollution times. Drive in the early morning or late evening, as air pollution levels are typically lowest at this time.



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There are many reasons why allergies can become worse when traveling. In general, changes in climate can make them worse. For example, a dry climate and low humidity in an airplane or new location. Traveling to areas with higher counts of pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and animal allergens can impact your allergies.

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For those who have an existing ear infection, allergies, sinus infections, or congestion might experience added pain and pressure during air travel. Flying with a pre-existing ear infection or other ear, nose, or throat condition could even lead to complications in some cases.

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Try antihistamines: For those with allergy symptoms and air pressure regulation difficulties, medications like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra may be a good option. Antihistamines are often formulated to include decongestants (such as Claritin-D, Allegra-D, and Zyrtec-D).

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If you have any allergy or cold-related symptoms, make sure you take an antihistamine or decongestant spray at least 30-45 minutes before your flight. Following this method can help alleviate any additional sinus pressure.

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Swelling and congestion of the nasal passages in allergic rhinitis can cause discomfort and prevent normal breathing. This becomes a significant distractor while flying and may lead some aviators to take over-the-counter allergy medications that are not approved for flight duties.

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You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.

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Infectious Diseases An airline can deny boarding of any passenger who looks unwell, especially if they suspect the passenger might be infectious (infect other passengers).

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If you fly with a head cold or seasonal allergies, Dr. Pinkston said it's possible you may significantly stretch your eardrum because your Eustachian tubes wouldn't be working properly to equalize pressure. If the stretching of the eardrum is considerable, these problems may occur: Capillaries in the ear break.

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