Blog Post

Traveling by airplane is still a remarkable thing. There are certainly many advantages to getting from place to place in something that moves at almost 600 mph nearly 40,000 feet (a bit over seven miles) above the ground.

But do you know the effect that airplane travel has on your body? To get a grasp on what air travel does to you in flight and how to cope, let’s explore the changes that take place while you’re so far above ground and some methods of management.

If you live in the Houston or Spring, Texas, area and you want to be ready for the rigors or airplane travel, our team at Houston Medical ER can help. 

How air travel affects the body

To understand the impact flying has on you, you need to know more about what the atmosphere is like that far above ground. 

The humidity levels in a plane are lower than at sea level. That high up, the pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature all fluctuate a lot more, especially since you’re moving a bit under the speed of sound. This leads to:

• Dehydration due to recycled air, which has little moisture and can dry out your throat, nose, and skin
• Exposure to germs and bacteria because you’re close to a bunch of strangers in an enclosed space
• Fatigue due to taking in less oxygen
• Added pressure in your ears (changes in cabin pressure) that can affect your balance and can lead to motion sickness
• Bloating due to the same pressures, which mess with the gas in your digestive tract
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) from extended time sitting on long flights
• Jet lag as your body adjusts to the changes in time zones, leading to exhaustion, concentration and memory problems, indigestion, and constipation

How to manage and prevent problems

The issues we mentioned above are generally temporary, and you can be manage them with these tips:

Move as much as you can during long flights

This is especially important for long flights. Move around and get up as much as you can to prevent DVT and get quality rest when you sleep.

Take the right clothing

Wear loose clothing that’s comfortable when flying to prevent problems with circulation, and use compression socks to keep circulation moving.

Stay hydrated

Hydration can help you avoid the effects of jet lag and bloating, but avoid alcohol and caffeine, which in the upper atmosphere can make things worse.

Rest before traveling

The whole travel experience can be exhausting, so get some sleep before you get on the plane.

Bring medications to help

Having meds to help with motion sickness, pain, and allergies can help to make your journey easier. To avoid spreading germs, some hand sanitizer couldn’t hurt.

Flying is definitely an adventure, but it’s something you should be ready for to keep it enjoyable. To prepare for airline travel and stay in good health, make an appointment with our team at Houston Medical ER today.