Flying and Sinus Problems

Sinus problems are bad enough with normal, weather-related, barometric pressure changes. On an airplane, the pressure changes are much faster, and can be quite painful. Most people think of ear problems related to flying, but sinus pain results from a similar problem. Like the ears, the sinuses have small drainage pathways into the nose which allow pressure changes in our environment to move in and out of the sinuses. When there is narrowing or a complete blockage, the pressure around us can be greater (or lesser) than the air pressure in our sinuses. Whenever there is a significant difference between the two pressures, we feel pressure or pain. The severity of the pain depends on the completeness of the blockage. A completely blocked sinus will usually elicit a very severe, knife-like pain in the involved sinus, called a sinus squeeze. Partial blockages tend to cause more of the deep, aching pain. The best way to prevent these problems is to use a topical decongestant, like Afrin, as well as Sudafed prior to flying with nasal congestion. If this is a recurrent problem, there is probably a permanent obstruction which should be evaluated by an ear nose and throat physician.

Christopher Thompson, MD