How does flying affect your body? The most important tips to keep us safe

Scientific journal Thorax revealed that cabin pressure in airplanes leads to lower blood pressure and increased heart rates for passengers, even in young, healthy travellers.

Dr Stephen Hughes, senior lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University and consultant in emergency medicine, explained that there are several physical and psychological changes that occur in the human body during flight. 

Our oxygen levels drop rapidly in the absence of the standard pressure we are accustomed to, leading to rapid loss of consciousness. To counter this, aircraft cabins are pressurized to maintain a relative internal level suitable for humans.

People may experience “ringing in the ears” due to pressure changes, dry eyes due to humidity changes, and even bloating or a gassy sensation.

Some passengers may also suffer from a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long-haul flights, or a blood clot within a deep vein, as it has been clinically proven that sitting in one position for a long period increases the risk of developing this condition.

Skin changes can also occur, partly due to dehydration or due to a low level of humidity while you are in the air, with many travelers reporting dry skin after flights.

The secretion of stress hormones may increase in some people when traveling by plane, which may lead to an increase in heart rate.

How do we stay safe on the plane?

1 - Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration on the plane, combat headaches or nausea, in addition to helping maintain blood pressure.

2 - Wash your hands constantly, and wipe any surfaces using an antibacterial tissue, since airplanes attract drier environments due to low humidity, and they may be the main place for contracting a cold or virus.

3- Chew something (gum, for example) or enjoy a drink, as swallowing has been proven to help balance the pressure in your ears.

4- Movement and stretching the legs, or performing simple yoga exercises, to maintain blood flow in the extremities and reduce the risk of blood clots.

5- Good nutrition to maintain blood sugar levels, and avoid any unpleasant drops that may lead to discomfort. Bananas in particular are often recommended due to their rich concentration of magnesium and potassium, as well as being easy to digest and gentle on the stomach.