We always feel a bit overcooked on the plane. A closed cabin, sleeping is not easy and the air pressure also has an effect on how we feel.
These are some of the things that can happen to your body when you're on an airplane.
The higher the plane flies, the lower the air pressure in the plane. Our body consists partly of gas and that can expand when the pressure is lower. Some are more sensitive to it than others, but it can cause bloating, abdominal pain and sometimes even constipation.
With a condition such as arthritis, you can experience more problems on the plane. Your joints can also swell slightly, making them slightly stiffer.
The humidity in an airplane is low, so you dry out faster. It is important to drink enough. Drinking too little can cause fatigue or headaches. If it bothers you, it is best to avoid alcohol.
The air circulates within the cabin, which also traps bacteria. You will therefore catch a cold a little faster than if you are not on the plane. There's little you can do about it. Try to keep your resistance up to standard and wash your hands regularly.
Try to exercise and stretch regularly during a (long) flight. If you quickly suffer from swollen legs and ankles, you can put on compression stockings.
If you're flying through different time zones, the journey might leave you jet lagged. Read our tips against jet lag.
