Which symptom would indicate sinus barotrauma during ascent?

Which symptom would indicate sinus barotrauma during ascent?

• A. Facial pressure or pain around sinuses
• B. Chest pain
• C. Leg cramps
• D. Skin rash

Answer: (A)

Sinus barotrauma happens when the changes in ambient pressure during ascent outpace the sinuses’ ability to equalize, so air trapped in the sinus cavities expands and stretches the mucosa, producing localized facial pressure or pain around the sinuses. This symptom directly reflects pressure-related injury to the sinus regions, making it the best indicator of sinus barotrauma in ascent. Other options—such as chest pain, leg cramps, or a skin rash—do not stem from sinus pressure changes and point to different problems (cardiac, dehydration/musculoskeletal issues, or dermatologic reactions). If this sinus pain appears during ascent, it’s wise to descend or level off to allow pressure to equalize and consider techniques like swallowing or gentle Valsalva to help, then seek medical advice if pain is severe or prolonged.

Sinus barotrauma happens when the changes in ambient pressure during ascent outpace the sinuses’ ability to equalize, so air trapped in the sinus cavities expands and stretches the mucosa, producing localized facial pressure or pain around the sinuses. This symptom directly reflects pressure-related injury to the sinus regions, making it the best indicator of sinus barotrauma in ascent. Other options—such as chest pain, leg cramps, or a skin rash—do not stem from sinus pressure changes and point to different problems (cardiac, dehydration/musculoskeletal issues, or dermatologic reactions). If this sinus pain appears during ascent, it’s wise to descend or level off to allow pressure to equalize and consider techniques like swallowing or gentle Valsalva to help, then seek medical advice if pain is severe or prolonged.