Is it safe to fly with a sinus infection?
Is it safe to fly with a sinus infection? As a general rule, flying with a sinus infection and a congested nose is not advised. Changes in cabin air pressure affect the air inside and outside of your head. As a result, clogged sinuses, which prevent you from equalizing pressure differences, can be excruciatingly painful.
Can flying with a sinus infection do damage?
By failing to equalize sinus and ear pressures with cabin pressure, a congested nose can result in blockages of the Eustachian tube (connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose). This can quickly lead to a mid-flight medical emergency, such as bleeding or rupturing of the eardrum or hearing loss.
Can you fly with a head cold?
It is recommended that if you have a cold that you do not fly; this should be enforced by airlines in the case of aircrew, and aircrew are required to self-report any symptoms of cold, flu, or similar.
How do you fly on a plane with a sinus infection?
- Topical Decongestants. Topical decongestants such as nasal steroid sprays can help relieve congestion almost immediately, and are available over the counter at any pharmacy. ...
- Systemic Decongestants. ...
- Gum, Snacks, and Beverages. ...
- Antibiotics (Sometimes)
What happens if you are congested and fly?
“If you've got inflammation blocking your means of equalizing the pressure, that's going to hurt,” he said. That pain can continue even after your flight as inflammation prevents the pressure from equalizing, Adalja added. It can also lead to trouble hearing, vertigo, and in rare cases, damage to the eardrum, Wu said.
Does flying dry your sinuses?
Sinus infection Moreover, the dry air in the cabin can cause dehydration of the nasal passages, weakening your body's defense against germs. Changes in air pressure during take-off and landing can block the Eustachian tubes, leading to inflammation and infection as well.