As a general rule, docs will tell you to avoid flying while you have a sinus infection. What’s the problem? Pressure. When your flight ascends and descends, air pressure changes rapidly, and your sinuses and middle ear have to adjust.
Adjustments can’t happen properly when certain sicknesses, such as sinus infections, block your body’s mechanisms to help equalize pressure. The result: uncomfortable, painful pressure that can make your head feel like it’s about to pop. In the worst cases, when pressure changes frequently in a short time — like with multiple layovers — the eardrum can actually rupture.
If it’s unavoidable and you have to fly, there are a few measures to help tackle pressure problems both before the flight and once you’re airborne.
From Dr. Robert Pincus: “Using Afrin nasal spray (oxymetazoline . 1/2%) 2 sprays in each nostril 1-2 hours before landing can help lessen the chance of the pressure change on landing causing sinus and ear pain.”
If you have specific questions about flying with a sinus infection — or if you’re wondering whether you’re well enough to fly — give us a call. Each case is unique, and we’d be happy to help you assess the situation before you take to the skies.
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