Why does my nose burn on high altitudes?
Senior Specialist & Head,
Department of Otolaryngology,
Ibri Regional Referral Hospital,
Sultanate of Oman
Q: I am 46 years, male single. I have complaints of bronchitis. I often suffer from cold and cough. I am in excellent health, I am about 5'6" in height, weighing about 71 kgs. I am also having border line diabetes. My blood sugar is about 100, PP about 140. I also go for long brisk walks, and practice yoga exercises every day. I am having normal blood pressure. My main problem is that while flying on high altitudes, I feel burning inside my nostrils, which at times makes breathing very difficult. I have to put wet tissue on my nostril to find quick relief.
A:This happens because of the high altitude changes brought in the blood circulation of the nose and the pressure changes of the sinuses. Apply a simple nasal drop at the suggestion of your local ENT surgeon one hour before flying.