How do you fly comfortably with a sinus infection?

A Doctor Gives 4 Tips for Flying With a Sinus Infection
  1. Topical Decongestants. Topical decongestants such as nasal steroid sprays can help relieve congestion almost immediately, and are available over the counter at any pharmacy. ...
  2. Systemic Decongestants. ...
  3. Gum, Snacks, and Beverages. ...
  4. Antibiotics (Sometimes)




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Take a decongestant pill or use nasal spray before the flight. Get filtered earplugs which help to gradually equalize the air pressure against your middle ear.

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The pressure changes that occur during this time cause rapid changes in the air pressure and balance of your ear, which can cause the condition. The condition can be triggered by the common cold, sinus infections, and ear infections, and in rare cases could lead to hearing loss or chronic tinnitus.

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If you start to notice this pressure building, you can try some of these strategies:
  1. Take an antihistamine if needed before your flight. ...
  2. Yawn or swallow during takeoff.
  3. Try chewing a piece of gum or candy during takeoff, if yawning and swallowing don't work for you.


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Treat congestion before your trip
If you're congested from allergies or an upper respiratory infection, it's important to do what you can to resolve the congestion before you fly. Common treatments for congestion include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroid sprays.

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If you're awake during ascents and descents, you can do the necessary self-care techniques when you feel pressure in your ears. Reconsider travel plans. If possible, don't fly when you have a cold, a sinus infection, nasal congestion or an ear infection.

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However, flying is possible for cases of controlled chronic intracranial hypertension. In many cases following treatment and medications, the increased fluid and pressure around the brain is under control and flying is possible, but not completely painless.

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However, when an airplane is ascending or descending (during take-off and landing, or in mid-air), the pressure difference can be felt for a short while inside the cabin as well. This sudden change in ambient pressure is the trigger for sinus pain and discomfort.

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It is not recommended to fly with acute intracranial hypertension because the conditions in the plane can worsen your condition and cause excruciating pain. If you have chronic or benign intracranial hypertension, you might be able to fly if your condition is under control.

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The increasing pressure leads to sinus pain that can usually be felt around the nose, cheekbones, eyes, and forehead. Bending over may make it worse. When flying, the body has to react to changes in cabin pressure during the flight.

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If at all possible, it's best to avoid flying when you or your children have an ear infection or a sinus infection.

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