Important facts about altitude change and sinus pain

You don’t spend a lot of time on land. You take a lot of flights and sometimes you even scuba dive. But when you do, you feel pain in your sinuses. Today we’re going to talk about that pain and what you can do to treat it.

Aerosinusitis: the name of your pain

Aerosinusitis – also known as barosinusitis or sinus barotrauma – is caused when you experience a rapid change of air pressure. While this is very common as the air pressure decreases, such as when you’re on a plane that’s taking off, you can also experience it when descending into higher-pressure areas, such as when diving in deep water.

When experiencing aerosinusitis, the pressure difference causes the mucosal lining of the sinuses to swell. Bleeding can sometimes accompany this swelling. Pain is often felt in the frontal sinus cavities, although some people also feel it around their eyes. Headaches and tooth pain are also possible symptoms.

People who had an upper respiratory tract infection, or who have allergies, are likelier to experience areosinusitis. Smoking, dehydration, and obesity can also be factors. Divers who hold their breath are also likely to experience pressure pain.

How do I treat this sinus pressure?

Decongestants may help if taken before your flight begins. An over-the-counter nasal spray may also be helpful, CEENTA ENT doctor Ross Udoff, MD, said. If you’re congested, try blowing your nose. You can also try chewing gum or breathing with your mouth open.

If you are scuba diving, avoid flying or otherwise traveling to a higher altitude for about a day after your dive. Don’t dive below 130 feet, and make sure to exhale freely as you resurface.

Sinus pain can be unpleasant, and if you still feel pain even after following these tips, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment with one of our doctors.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. Dr. Udoff practices in our Monroe office. To make an appointment with him or an ENT doctor near you, call 704-295-3000. You can also schedule an appointment online or through myCEENTAchart.