Sinus blocks most often occur during which phase of flight?

Sinus blocks most often occur during which phase of flight?

• A. Ascent
• B. Descent
• C. Cruise
• D. Landing

Answer: (B)

Sinus blocks happen when the drainage passages of the paranasal sinuses are obstructed, so air and secretions can’t equalize with cabin pressure. In flight, these passages need to vent to the nasal cavity as pressure changes. Descent involves a rapid increase in ambient pressure toward sea level, and if the sinus drainage pathways are blocked by mucus or edema, the sinus cannot equalize quickly enough. That mismatch in pressure creates a blocking sensation or pain, so blocks are most likely to occur during descent. If symptoms arise, focus on keeping the nasal passages clear and use safe maneuvers to help equalize pressure; seek medical advice if this is a recurrent issue.

Sinus blocks happen when the drainage passages of the paranasal sinuses are obstructed, so air and secretions can’t equalize with cabin pressure. In flight, these passages need to vent to the nasal cavity as pressure changes. Descent involves a rapid increase in ambient pressure toward sea level, and if the sinus drainage pathways are blocked by mucus or edema, the sinus cannot equalize quickly enough. That mismatch in pressure creates a blocking sensation or pain, so blocks are most likely to occur during descent. If symptoms arise, focus on keeping the nasal passages clear and use safe maneuvers to help equalize pressure; seek medical advice if this is a recurrent issue.