| Important Inflight Health Tips |
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| Contributed by J. R. Ransom | |
 Healthy Flying However, it is a well known fact that travelling long distances in a pressurized cabin at altitude does have some effects on the human body. Here are a few simple tips to help make sure that you arrive at your destination in tip-top shape. Move About. Change position often and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in developing clotting disorders such as deep vein thronbosos (DVT) - whether you're on a plane, bus, or train. Walk Around. Get out of your seat and walk around the cabin regularly to improve circulation. Stretch out. Do the exercises and follow the advice in the airlines exercise guide (usually a video selection). This will help[ you feel more refreshed when you arrive at your destination. No Pills. Unless expressly recommended by your doctor who is aware of your intention to fly, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight - this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish. Mind your ears. Avoid flying with a heavy cold, sinusitis or ear problems as cabin pressure changes during the flight may cause discomfort. If you experience problems during the flight, suck a sweet, chew or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose - this should equalize the pressure in most healthy people. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew. Drink plenty! Ask a member of the cabin crew if you're thirsty and look out for the regular water and fruit juice services. Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee or carbonated drinks, as they will dehydrate you. Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods - air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling. Moisturize. Your skin, especially your lips and nostrils, may feel dry so moisturizing creams may help. If you wear contact lenses, always carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual. Stay loose. Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes and shoes. Pretend you're already there! To minimize the effects of jey lag, set your watch to your destination time as soon as you board the aircraft and try to adjust your eating/sleeping pattern accordingly. You'll need to take medical advice before you fly if any of the following effect you:
Courtesy: Virgin Atlantic Airlines. |
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