Hi all,
Have had the pleasure of 1 explosive barotrauma and 2 sinus operations including an aptly named "frontal sinus drill-out".
1. Sinuses are interlinked cavities that reduce the weight of the skull and are thought to have had some bouyancy aid in very early mammals.
2. If the cavities are blocked and pressure changes occur (climb or descent) significant pain can occur. This can be debilitating to the point where it is physically impossible to operate.
3. If you have a head cold and are prone to sinus discomfort - don't fly!
4. Sudafed works but most aviation doctors will not allow anyone near an aeroplane after using it.
5. Otrivine is emergency use only when in an aeroplane. Long term use causes more sinus problems than it solves.
6. Part of the problem we have is the dry air within the cockpit or flight deck. A saline mist can be purchased in the USA and is very good for maintaining clear cavities.
7. Steam bath on the ground is good, however, nasal douche is better! You'll need a syringe, warm water and salt. Basically inhale salt water whilst squirting the syringe up each nostril. Gets into all sinuses and then snort it out. You will be amazed how much gunk comes out.
8. Flixonase is an aquaeous nasal spray with a low dose steroid in. Prescription only but perfectly fine to fly with. It reduces polyp build up which are often the cause of the blockages.
9. Ultimately surgery may be required for those of us lucky to have repeated problems. It hurts, but it was worth it for me. UK based people may wish to contact ENT Specialist Surgeon John Skipper in Portsmouth. He has an enviable record for getting Service Pilots back in the air again.
Good luck!
GA