How do you relieve sinus pressure on a plane?
How do you relieve sinus pressure on a plane? Two of the most common ways to manage sinus pain while flying are chewing gum or sipping water during take-off and landing. You can also try taking medications such as decongestants or using the Valsalva maneuver.
Do antihistamines help with flying?
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).
Is it OK to fly with sinus pressure?
If suffering from a sinus infection while flying, you may experience severe sinus pressure and pain. We recommend avoiding air travel when possible if you have a sinus infection. By treating the root cause of your sinus pressure and pain, you can avoid a lifetime of painful flights.
Why do my sinuses hurt in the plane?
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.
Should I take antihistamine or decongestant before flying?
Try taking a decongestant or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine before you get on the airplane, particularly if you are suffering from a head cold or swollen sinuses. If you have high blood pressure or heart problems, you should not take decongestants without approval of your healthcare provider.
How long before flight should I use nasal spray?
Spray nose with Otrivine well about 1 hour and then again 30 minutes before landing. Try to clear nasal ear passage by holding nose, blow out cheeks with mouth closed and swallow.
When does sinus block occur during flight?
When the plane changes elevation during descent and ascent the sinuses must equilibrate to match the air pressure in the cabin but when the sinuses and eustachian tubes are blocked equilibration can be an issue. The pain occurs because of the restriction of air flow causing pressure in our sinuses.
Why do I feel pressure in my head when flying?
Some studies suggest that the cabin pressure changes in the airplane, which are more pronounced during takeoff and landing, affects the head and sinuses in a way that triggers a headache. Another possible explanation for AHs is a fear of flying, which can cause stress and anxiety and subsequently trigger a headache.