Is it safe to fly or participate in altitude chamber flight if you have an upper respiratory infection but take medication?

The concern with flying or participating in altitude chamber flights when you have an upper respiratory infection stems from how altitude and cabin pressure affect the body, particularly the ears and sinuses. An upper respiratory infection can cause congestion and inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, which might lead to difficulty equalizing pressure changes. During ascent and descent, this inability to equalize can result in pain, damage to the ear structures, or even conditions such as barotrauma.

While medication may alleviate some symptoms, it does not necessarily resolve the underlying issue linked to pressure changes due to the infection. Therefore, engaging in activities that expose individuals to rapid changes in altitude while experiencing an upper respiratory infection carries risks that could compromise safety. Accepting these risks, therefore, is not considered safe practice, leading to the conclusion that it is unsafe to participate in such activities under these circumstances.