Which of the following is a sign of sinus squeeze?

• A. Intense Pain
• B. Nasal obstruction
• C. Dizziness
• D. Blood from the nose

Answer: (D)

Sinus squeeze happens when the air-filled sinus spaces can’t equalize as you descend, so the trapped air and pressure injure the sinus mucosa. The most telltale sign is blood coming from the nose, because pressure-related injury can rupture small vessels in the sinus lining and cause epistaxis. While intense facial pain and nasal obstruction can occur with sinus barotrauma, they are less specific and can accompany other dive-related issues; dizziness is more commonly linked to inner-ear squeeze. Recognizing nosebleed in the context of a dive with facial pain or congestion points to sinus involvement and warrants stopping the dive, ascending slowly if possible, and seeking medical evaluation if symptoms persist.