Why do I get congested every time I fly?


Why do I get congested every time I fly? During lift-off and landing, changes in the air pressure inside the plane's cabin, affects the air inside and outside of your head. If your sinuses are congested, this means an unbalanced amount of pressure, which can be a painful experience.


Do flight attendants have Sudafed?

If you forget antihistamines and decongestants, don't expect any supplies on board. “Flight attendants are not allowed to dispense any kind of medicine except what is boarded--currently just acetaminophen (Tylenol),” according to a United Airlines spokesman.


How do you fly on a plane 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)


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.


Should I take mucinex before a flight?

With a doctor's approval, adults can take a decongestant. “If it's a short flight, take it [the decongestant] before leaving,” House says. If it's a long flight, eight hours or so, you might take it an hour or so before the scheduled landing.


What medication do doctors prescribe for flying?

People often come to us requesting the doctor or nurse to prescribe diazepam for fear of flying or assist with sleep during flights. Diazepam is a sedative, which means it makes you sleepy and more relaxed.


Should you hydrate before a long flight?

Stay hydrated Many seasoned travellers say the single most important thing to do on a long-haul flight is to drink water, because flying is the ultimate dehydrator. Try hydrating before you fly with a litre of water, then aim for at least 1 litre every 5 hours on board.


Should I use Flonase before flying?

With the right preparation, your in-flight experience can be allergy-free and clear for landing before you leave the ground. So, to help keep the friendly skies friendly, be sure to use your favorite FLONASE allergy relief nasal spray the morning of your flight.


What medications should not be taken before flying?

These include any hormone-based drugs, like the contraceptive pill and some fertility medicines, and drugs used to prevent heart attack and stroke. Antihistamines should also not be used to help passengers sleep during a flight.


How do you relieve head pressure on a plane?

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.