Feeling Unwell After Flying? Here’s What You Need to Know
Traveling by air has become a common mode of transportation for many people. Whether it’s for business or leisure, flying allows us to reach our destinations quickly and efficiently. However, it’s not uncommon to feel unwell after a flight. From airplane sickness to jet lag, there are various factors that can affect our bodies during air travel. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of these symptoms and what doctors recommend to help you feel better.
Airplane Sickness
Also known as motion sickness, airplane sickness is a common problem that affects many travelers. It is caused by the body’s inability to adjust to the changes in motion and pressure during a flight. The most common symptoms of airplane sickness include nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and can ruin your travel experience.
One of the main reasons for airplane sickness is the lack of fresh air and circulation in the cabin. The air in the plane is recycled, which can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels and an increase in carbon dioxide. This can cause a feeling of stuffiness and discomfort, leading to nausea and dizziness. Additionally, the constant changes in altitude and air pressure can also contribute to the symptoms of airplane sickness.
To prevent airplane sickness, it’s important to choose a seat that is closer to the front of the plane, as this area experiences less turbulence. You can also try to keep your head still and avoid looking out the window, as the constant movement can worsen the symptoms. It’s also recommended to avoid heavy meals before and during the flight, as well as alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate the symptoms.
Jet Lag
Jet lag is a temporary sleep disorder that occurs when you travel across different time zones. It happens because our bodies have an internal clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycle, and when we travel to a different time zone, our body’s clock gets disrupted. This can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
The severity of jet lag depends on the direction of travel and the number of time zones crossed. It’s usually worse when traveling east, as our body’s internal clock has a harder time adjusting to an earlier time. The symptoms of jet lag can last for a few days, and it can take up to a week for our bodies to fully adjust to the new time zone.
To minimize the effects of jet lag, it’s recommended to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before your flight. This can help your body gradually adapt to the new time zone. During the flight, try to get some rest and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Once you reach your destination, try to stay awake until it’s bedtime in the new time zone, and avoid taking naps during the day. Exposure to natural sunlight can also help your body adjust to the new time zone.
Travel Health Factors
Apart from airplane sickness and jet lag, there are other travel health factors that can affect our bodies during a flight. These include dehydration, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and exposure to germs and viruses.
Dehydration is a common problem during air travel, as the dry air in the cabin can cause our bodies to lose more water than usual. This can lead to symptoms such as dry skin, headaches, and fatigue. To prevent dehydration, it’s important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. You can also bring a reusable water bottle with you and ask the flight attendants to refill it for you.
DVT is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can be caused by sitting for long periods without moving, which is common during a flight. DVT can be a serious condition, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent it. This includes getting up and moving around the cabin every hour or so, doing simple leg exercises while seated, and wearing compression socks.
Lastly, being in a confined space with many people can increase your risk of catching a cold or other illnesses. To protect yourself, make sure to wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer. It’s also a good idea to bring disinfectant wipes and wipe down your seat and tray table before using them.
What Doctors Recommend
If you’re feeling unwell after a flight, it’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself. Rest and
