Sinus pain with new mask

[scubajo007]

Guys and Gal’s, hope you can help with this.

Recently I have encountered problems with sinus pain when snorkelling. The pain comes after about 15 minutes of rapid and successive descents to a depth of 6 to 9 ft.
I snorkel in the Mediterranean where the water temperature is 70 to 80 deg F. at the moment.
When the problem starts then even a dip to 2 ft with a slow and smooth descent cause sinus pain. I do equalise which clears the ears but not the sinuses. The pain disappears when I reach the surface.

The problem has come after I began to use my new mask which is a Tusa Splendive II. The mask seems not to fit completely, the point where the two windows meet press against the top of my nose bone with so much force that it feels uncomfortable. I wonder if this could be or at least contribute to the problem or it’s a question of congestions only.

I have not had sinus problems in the past when snorkelling or scuba diving, however then I used another mask which did not press against the nose bone.

 

[LoboMX]

I had this happen to me recently also. A new very nice low profile mask that seemed like it fit in the store but it gives me major sinus pain when I use it. I tried breathing through my mouth and out my nose to keep the mask constantly equalized but that didn't even help.

If the mask is pressing against your nose or sinus area it will cause the problem. It almost feels like a sinus squeeze after a while. If you have an old mask or can use a buddys mask I would do that first to see if the problem goes away. It's a very good chance that it's the mask though.

LoboMX

 

[scubajo007]

Thanks for your reply,

Yes it’s exactly as you describe it. The mask is a low profile mask and it fitted nicely in the shop. I have also tried to breathe out through my nose and also have it extra loose and take the bit extra leakage an overly loose mask cause but with no effect.
I will try with one of my old masks where I haven’t had this problem and see it sorts it.

 

[llqwyd]

I would say that you either have the mask too tight, or it just doesn't fit correctly. I know that this won't help, but our shop has a "dive before you buy" option.

Our Cressi Matrix and BIG-EYE-EVO masks are very low volume without the annoying forehead intrusion.

Kauai scuba diving at a NAUI Pro Platinum Dive Shop
Cressi Professional Scuba Diving Equipment - fin, mask, snorkel, regulator, BC

Good luck with that one