If you have a job that requires you to travel frequently by air, you may already have some idea of the potential health risks of extended plane travel can be. A number of studies have focused on the affects of constantly flying at high altitudes such as those reached by commercial airliners. Okay, so what are the top health concerns for frequent flyers? This article is intended to describe four common health concerns and pose solutions for dealing with them.
Air travel has been recognized as the safest form of transportation. At the same time, it puts certain physical stresses on passengers due to the unique environment. Most of concerns leveled against air travel deal more with those who travel extensively or take long-distance flights often. There can be cumulative influences that will affect your health overall.
1. Jet lag – This is a common reaction to extended flights that cross multiple time zone. In fact, about 90% of airline passengers on long trips will experience the characteristic dizziness, irritability, lack of concentration, and fatigue associated with jet lag. It is not uncommon for people to sleep extended hours. There is possibility that too much jet lag can become detrimental to your health. You get so worn out from the strains of air travel you become more susceptible to other illnesses.
The best way to overcome jet lag is to be prepared before hand so you can relax and enjoy the flight better. Get plenty of sleep prior to the trip. Also, drink water during the flight rather than caffeine or alcohol. Also so little stretches and exercises.
2. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – This dangerous condition can result from sitting in a cramped place for a long period of time. It is understandably the most serious health concern for frequent flyers. What happens during this condition is that blood turns to a solid state, producing a clot that can restrict blood flow. If a large cloth forms, it could prove fatal if not treated.
You can help avoid DVT by moving as much as you can during the flight. This might mean doing stretches in your seat or making trips to the bathroom. Do anything you can to keep the blood circulating. Also, make sure you stay hydrated; this can reduce the chances of clots forming.
3. Lack of Water – As already mentioned in the two earlier points, when don’t drink enough water you will be more likely to be affected by the changes in environment produced by air travel. By drinking plenty of water, you can also keep nausea away in some cases. You can also reduced of contracting illness by taking vitamins like vitamin C with your water.
4. Anxiety – This concern is difficult to deal with since everyone has anxiety about flying at one time or another. Even those who travel all the time can still be weighed down with anxiety they cannot deal with. When anxiety overwhelms you, it can show up in physical ways. You could get nauseous or have a panic attack.
Too much anxiety can cause psychological problems or even result from them. It is a complex issue that should not be ignored. If feel this way, you should consult with a professional before you fly again.
These concerns have been just a few of the more common ones. There could be others based on individual cases. For example, you could have health concerns if you’re already dealing with a medical illness. The same is true for people with disabilities.
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