Hitting the Road with Sinus Pain

Traveling can be an exciting adventure! However, if you are suffering from sinus pain and discomfort, it can make your journey less enjoyable. From cabin pressure changes to dry, allergen-filled hotel rooms, your travel itinerary may include many possible irritants for your already sensitive sinuses. If postponing your travel plans is not a possibility, try the sinus solutions below to make your travels more comfortable. Bon Voyage!
	Stay hydrated. Airplane cabins are typically dry and can cause sinus irritation for those with allergies, asthma or head colds. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water and avoiding coffee, colas and alcohol from the drink cart. Also, try using a natural saline solution nasal spray on an hourly basis to keep nasal passages moist and sinus pain at bay.
	Relieve pressure. When altitude changes quickly during ascent or descent, you may feel a sensation known as "popping ears." To relieve this pressure in your ear canals and sinuses, try swallowing frequently, chewing gum or sucking on a lollipop.
	Wear ear plugs. To block your sensitive inner ears and ear drums from potential damage due to cabin pressure changes, try wearing ear plugs. The ear plugs allow the air pressure to change very slowly and assimilate to the appropriate pressure.
	Use a hot compress. If you are suffering from sinus pain or pressure, ask your flight attendant for a hot washcloth to place over your nose and eyes before takeoff. The heat will help your sinuses to drain and prepare for changes in cabin pressure.
	Close the window on sinus irritants. If you are travelling by car, avoid sinus irritants by keeping car windows closed during pollen and allergy season, and using your air conditioner to cool down. Try to avoid travelling during non-peak traffic hours when levels of exhaust fumes are lower and air quality is better.
	Create humidity. If the air in your hotel room is too dry, drape wet towels around the room or turn on a hot shower for a few moments to fill the room with steam and keep your nasal passages moist.