Air travel is a big challenge for a lot of people due to the health issues that can be associated with it. Issues of handicaps, ailments and the attitudes of your fellow travelers can impact your experience.
* People who suffer from respiratory ailments, such as asthma or bronchitis may experience an exacerbation of symptoms from a pressured airline cabin. Contact your physician prior to your trip to ascertain if additional medication or oxygen use may alleviate your distress. If you will be bringing an oxygen tank onboard, you will need to notify the airline in advance.
* Often migraine sufferers and people prone to inner ear problems will find that long flights can bring on a painful episode. Having your medication available in your carryon baggage is advisable. If you currently have a cold or the flu, consider an OTC antihistamine or decongestant, as long as approved by your physician, to help relieve “stuffy” symptoms.
* Long flights, crossing many time zones, often causes cases of jet lag. Ensure you are well rested prior to your flight and try to relax or sleep while on the plane.
* It is important to walk and stretch prior to boarding and after disembarking the aircraft. This helps circulation and can help avoid blood clots from developing in your extremities. For very long flights, get up and walk through the cabin when permitted. While seated in the cabin, flex your toes and stretch your calves, roll your shoulders and rotate your neck.
* Pressurization of the airplane can cause dehydration. Dehydration can add to symptoms of jet lag, so hydrate with juices and water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
* Pump up your immune system with anti-oxidants and eat healthy foods prior, during and after your travel. Do not overeat as this will make you feel sluggish and tired.
* Bring a face mask if you have an immune deficiency or if you have an illness that might be contagious. You don’t want to catch someone’s virus, nor do you want to share your cold with the other passengers.
* If you suffer from anxiety or have a phobia about flying, refer to your medical provider for medication to calm you or assist you in sleeping during long flights. You may consider an OTC sleep aid even if you are not an anxiety sufferer, just so you rest during lengthy flights.
These are only a few of the possible health issues that can be aggravated by extensive travel. Some people don’t worry about these issues because they are often not affected or get relaxed in self catered apartments. But for those who experience some of these issues, flying can be a traumatic experience. Even healthy travelers often suffer some discomfort when traveling by air. Therefore, to feel your best and avoid serious jet lag, it is imperative to follow these precautions.
While there are many health issues involved with airline travel, you needn’t make yourself sick with worry. With the right information and simple precautionary measures, you can attempt to alleviate serious problems. By following these measures you can assure yourself a comfortable and relaxing flight.
Having a pre-arranged serviced apartment awaiting your arrival can help reduce the stresses brought on by a lengthy flight. MoveandStay.com is a great online resource that provides international travelers with self catered apartments choices around the globe the ability to have accommodations ready for their arrival.
