Chances are you've mentally prepared yourself for the possibility of a plane crash or terrorist hijacking. Have you prepared yourself for the dangers posed by turbulence, air pressure, jet lag, and blood clots?
Flying for several hours on a commercial flight can be hazardous to your health. Air pressure inside the cabin of a plane can cause air to expand by 25 percent in your lungs, sinus cavities, and eardrums. The pressure can cause slight physical discomfort to downright pain. Chewing gum has been recommended frequently as a remedy for air pressure in the cabin.
Turbulence is another problem that occurs with a great deal of frequency on board a plane. Air turbulence can cause the plane to shake. Not only is this stressful but it can cause motion sickness. Don't worry there are bags located in the seat in front of you on every flight just for the purpose of allowing you to vomit.
Dramamine or Benadryl are helpful in alleviating symptoms of motion sickness. Specially developed wristbands are currently available which claim to help prevent motion sickness. Skin patches containing an inter-dermal drug is also available from your doctor to stop motion sickness from occurring.
Even if you are a travel consultant you need to guide your travelers with Jet lag which is a common problem when traveling by plane. If you travel across time zones, chances are that you will experience jet lag. Jet lag symptoms include physical fatigue and emotional stress caused by having your bodies natural sleep rhythms changed by entering different time zones. This can be hazardous if you will be driving a car upon your arrival to your destination.
Deep Vein Thrombosis can be caused by sitting in one place for long periods of time. Elderly people and those individuals with circulation problems should get up and walk about the cabin once permitted by the flight captain. Blood clots are a constant danger for those who have poor circulation.
Prepare emotionally and physically for an airplane flight. Eat light, don't smoke or drink alcohol, and increase your intake of water and other fluids. Purchase motion sickness pills before the flight if you have difficulty dealing with turbulence. Chewing gum may be helpful for those who experience physical problems from cabin pressure. When permitted, walk about the cabin to keep your circulation going to prevent blood clots.
