It is highly recommended to postpone your travel plans if at all possible. Waiting a few days, getting on antibiotics and resting will provide your body with a chance to heal and recover. The affects of the sinus infection will begin to fade after three days of taking antibiotics. By this time the ears should be cleared and the sinuses drained enough to where you can travel comfortably. If you are unable to postpone there are other options to help alleviate the pain.
If you have to fly with a sinus infection, the main objective is to reduce the infected sinus and drain it of as much fluid as possible. This can be achieved through taking oral and nasal decongestants. Take the oral decongestant for 24 hours before the flight to get the medication in your system and the sinuses calmed down. An hour before takeoff take a nasal decongestant spray to really shrink the agitated sinus to its usual size. Keep in mind that you should drink plenty of fluids when using a decongestant so you don't dehydrate yourself.
Swallowing frequently causes the ear canals to open. You can chew gum, eat or drink to produce this effect. During takeoff and landing are the two most crucial times to sallow because of the rapidly changing air pressure. Sucking has the same effect so you may want to suck on a lollipop or a pacifier.
Wearing ear plugs will protect your inner ear from greater damage. Ear plugs effectively block the pressure changes from harming the inner ear. The inner is sensitive and can easily be damaged in such conditions. The ear plug will allow the air pressure to change very slowly and assimilate to the appropriate pressure. This also protects the ear drum from any potential damage.
Talk with a flight attendant before you flight about getting you a hot washcloth to place over your nose and eyes. You can also purchase an instant hot compress and activate it just before takeoff. The hot compress will encourage the sinuses to drain and soften in preparation for the changes in the cabin pressure.
