Summer vacations are a time to relax on the beach, kick back with a few good books and make precious family memories. However, for many people, sinus issues can interrupt these plans. If you’ve ever struggled with sinus issues during or after your travels, you’re not alone. The combination of elevation change, dehydration and allergen exposure can contribute to sinus discomfort.
Understanding how to maintain good sinus health during your travels can make a significant difference in your vacation experience. Let’s explore how travel can affect your sinus health and what steps you can take to stay healthy for the best summer yet.
How Can Travel Affect Your Sinuses?
Three ways long-haul air and car travel can affect your sinus health include:
- Elevation change. You’re probably familiar with the ear-popping sensation during takeoff or landing on a flight. Sinus squeeze, or barosinusitis, is a similar experience. Rapid elevation changes can prevent the pressure in your sinuses from equalizing, causing symptoms like sinus pain or pressure, nosebleeds, runny nose, tooth pain and teary eyes.
- Dehydration. Traveling often involves exposure to dry air in cabins or cars and reduced fluid intake. This dry air and lack of fluids can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can exacerbate sinus pressure, pain, congestion and nasal irritation.
- Allergen exposure. Allergies can irritate your sinuses, leading to congestion, runny nose, facial pain and sinus infections. Your travel destination might expose you to new allergens, causing an unexpected reaction. For example, you might be sensitive to higher pollen levels at your vacation spot compared to what you’re used to at Greer City Park.
How to Care for Your Sinus Health
A few ways you can safeguard your sinus health during travel include:
- Use nasal irrigation before your trip if you are experiencing congestion.
- Carry allergy medication and use decongestants as needed. Consult with your ENT or allergy specialist to determine the best allergy management plan for your travels.
- Drink plenty of water, decaffeinated tea or fresh fruit juices to hydrate your sinuses.
To learn more about maintaining your sinus health this summer, contact Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy today to make an appointment with one of our experts.
