## How to Relieve Sinus Pain from Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is an exhilarating activity that allows you to explore the underwater world. However, it can also lead to sinus pain, which can be caused by the pressure changes associated with diving. Here are some effective ways to relieve sinus pain from scuba diving:
### Prevention
Use a nasal decongestant: Nasal decongestants can help to shrink the swollen blood vessels in your sinuses, which can reduce pressure and pain. Take a nasal decongestant before your dive to help prevent sinus pain.
Apply a warm compress: Applying a warm compress to your sinuses can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Soak a washcloth in warm water and place it over your face for 10-15 minutes.
Take an antihistamine: Antihistamines can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. Take an antihistamine before your dive to help prevent sinus pain.
### Treatment
Use a saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays can help to clear mucus from your sinuses and reduce inflammation. Use a saline nasal spray after your dive to help relieve sinus pain.
Take a hot shower: The steam from a hot shower can help to thin mucus and reduce sinus pain. Take a hot shower after your dive to help relieve sinus pain.
Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help to thin mucus and reduce sinus pain. Drink plenty of fluids after your dive to help relieve sinus pain.
### Additional Tips
Avoid diving if you have a cold or allergies: Diving with a cold or allergies can increase your risk of developing sinus pain. If you are congested, have a runny nose, or are sneezing, it is best to avoid diving.
Ascend slowly: Ascending too quickly can cause the pressure in your sinuses to increase, which can lead to sinus pain. Ascend slowly and make frequent stops to help equalize the pressure in your sinuses.
Use a mouth guard: A mouth guard can help to prevent the pressure from your regulator from putting pressure on your sinuses. This can help to reduce sinus pain.
### When to See a Doctor
If your sinus pain is severe or does not improve after a few days, you should see a doctor. Sinus pain can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a sinus infection.