SCARY FACTS: What Happens To You On A Plane?

Thursday, July 23, 2015, 15:06 [IST]

Have you ever wondered what happens to your body while flying in a plane? Here are some of the health effects of flying which could at times be fatal too. Heard of DVT ( Deep Vein Thrombosis)... it is one of the many effects people suffer from due to frequent flying, seated in the same place for more than 2 - to 3 hours.

The lack of space in an aircraft can also affect people with low immunity to develop common colds and other infectious diseases. All this time we were worried about plane crashes, not realising that these health effects are much more deadly than dying on the spot!

DO YOU KNOW THE NIGHTMARES OF FLYING?

So, if you're a frequent flyer, know that your putting your health at constant risk with these dangers of flying.

Take a look at some of the things which happens to you while you're enjoying the view through the clouds:

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein in the body, usually in the lower leg or thigh. This blood clot ca affect the heart causing an attack or at times can bring on a stroke. This is one of the main health effects of flying.

Jet Lag

Jet lag is a common health problem many people face while flying across countries due to the time difference. With lack of sleep, jet lag brings upon fatigue, headache and and loss of appetite.

That Harmful Radiation

When our body is up 30 feet in the sky, the air becomes thinner. This in turn exposes the passengers to a much higher level of cosmic radiation than at ground level which is harmful to the body.

Swelling In The Legs

According to experts, the lower pressure in the cabin can lower blood pressure. This affects the blood circulation in the body thus resulting to swelling of the limbs. To prevent this, it is advisable to wear socks and walk between intervals.

Ear Pain

One of the common health effects of flying on the body is ear pain. It occurs When cabin pressure changes during takeoff and landing. The pair develops when the air in your ears can expands, causing pressure within the ear canal.

Dehydration

Scientifically, our bodies are designed to be comfy with just about 50% humidity. However, when we are up thousands of feet in the sky the cabin's humidity will be low as 10 percent, therefore causing dehydration. Along with this extreme headaches, dry eyes, low bp, rapid heart beat follows.

Fatigue

The lack of sleep can make you feel over the limit tired. Though it is difficult to sleep while flying, at least three to fours is necessary to avoid being tired.

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites are not at all harmful. But, it becomes a problem when you're infested with the pest. It is a scary thing to face while flying.

Lung Damage

Since the windows are constantly shut in a plane there is recirculation of air. Usually, the air is drawn in by the engine and channelled into the interiors which thus has an effect on the lungs and can cause damage. This is a health effect for frequent flyers.