How to Fly With a Head Cold

When you are suffering from a head cold, an airplane is likely one of the last places that you want to be. The crowded spaces, recycled air and changes in altitude are all conditions not conducive to improving how you feel. When possible it is best to avoid flying if you've come down with a head cold. Unfortunately, there are times when taking a flight is unavoidable; however; knowing the best way to do so can get you to your destination without feeling any worse than when you started.

Things You'll Need

• Nasal decongestant spray
• Petroleum jelly
• Earplugs
• Aspirin
• Throat lozenges
• Tissue

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a nasal decongestant spray approximately 30 minutes before your flight leaves and again before it lands, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic. During extremely long flights use the decongestant spray as needed, but take care not to overuse.

• 2

  Smooth a layer of petroleum jelly just inside of each of your nostrils. This will also help to keep your nasal passages moist during the flight.

• 3

  Buy filtered earplugs to help with airplane ear or clogged ears from the rapid change in air pressure. Head colds often can cause swelling that causes a blockage of the Eustachian tubes that normally maintain pressure on both sides of the eardrum. According to the Mayo Clinic, when this occurs while flying, the changes in pressure can result in pain, minor loss of hearing, vertigo and a number of other problems. The filtered earplugs are designed so that, according to the MedicineNet, the changes in air pressure occur slowly through passages in the plugs. Because the rate of pressure change is slow the difference in pressure across the eardrum is minimized. Wear the plugs as directed, which normally involves inserting them before take off and wearing them throughout the flight.

• 4

  Take acetaminophen or an aspirin before your flight to help minimize any current pain and lessen any discomfort that may be brought on by flying.

• 5

  Put plenty of tissue in your carry-on luggage. Having tissue readily available will allow you to cover and contain any sneezes and cover your mouth when speaking. Ask your stewardess for a sick bag to throw your dirty tissues into if one is not readily available by your seat. Wash your hands frequently to limit the spread of germs.

• 6

  Drink water during the flight to stay hydrated and to help prevent throat irritation. Drinking water or fruit juice also will help with the extreme dry atmosphere aboard planes. Throat lozenges or hard candy will also help to counteract dryness by increasing how often you swallow.