5 Ways Flying Long Distance Affects Your Blood Pressure

The experience of flying long distances can be thrilling and adventurous, but it is essential to be aware of the potential repercussions that flying might have on one’s health. One factor that affects your blood pressure but is sometimes overlooked is how it might affect your overall health. Several things, including shifts in cabin pressure, sitting for extended periods, and other variables, can cause variations in blood pressure. This post will examine five ways traveling long distances affects your blood pressure and provide insights on how to lessen these effects.

1.  Blood Pressure And The Effects Of Dehydration

Dehydration is a risk you take whenever you travel by air, but it is especially prevalent on longer flights. The low humidity levels in the cabin might cause moisture to evaporate from your body, resulting in dehydration if exposed to them for an extended period. Your blood pressure may be adversely affected due to your lack of water. When you are dehydrated, your blood volume drops, which can increase your blood pressure. You can prevent this from happening if you do not drink enough water. Drinking water before, during, and after travel is necessary to prevent dehydration. Maintaining the correct blood volume and keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range depends on your ability to retain adequate hydration.

2.  Prolonged Sitting And The Risk Of Blood Clots

The fact that you are forced to sit for extended periods can also have a substantial impact on your blood pressure, especially on long flights. The danger of developing blood clots is increased when one sits for long periods since this reduces blood circulation throughout the body. If they reach the lungs, these blood clots, sometimes called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can pose a serious risk to a person’s life. Compression socks for women and men can help enhance blood circulation in the legs, which is one of the key advantages of wearing these socks. The pressure exerted by the socks is progressive, beginning at the ankles where it is greatest and gradually lessening as it moves up the legs and into the thighs. This compression serves to ease the flow of blood from the lower limbs back to the heart, keeping blood from collecting in the lower extremities and lowering the risk of conditions such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When circulation is improved, oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the muscles more effectively. This results in a reduction in muscular fatigue and promotes a quicker recovery. It is recommended that passengers take frequent pauses during the flight and engage in simple exercises such as leg stretches, ankle rotations, and walking up and down the aisle to reduce the likelihood of experiencing this risk. Participating in these activities will help improve blood flow and lower the risk of developing blood clots.

3.  Circadian Rhythm Disturbances And Blood Pressure

When traveling through various time zones, many people report suffering from a condition known as “jet lag.” It throws off your body’s internal clock, which can result in various symptoms such as weariness, sleeplessness, and even changes in blood pressure. The circadian rhythm in your body might be disrupted, which can lead to an increase in the levels of blood pressure. It is recommended that you gradually modify your sleep schedule before your travel, stay hydrated during the flight, and expose yourself to natural sunlight as soon as you arrive at your location. This will help reduce jet lag’s impact on your blood pressure. These steps will assist in resetting the clock in your body and will help get your blood pressure back under control.

4.  Tension And Apprehension

Many people, particularly those who fear flying, can experience increased levels of tension and anxiety due to flying. The combination of cramped quarters, turbulent air, and the general anticipation of the trip can lead to elevated stress levels. As a result of this, one’s blood pressure can experience a momentary increase. It triggers the so-called “fight or flight” reaction in the body, which makes the heart beat more quickly and causes the blood vessels to constrict. Finding effective strategies to manage stress and anxiety throughout your flight, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to peaceful music, can help you keep your blood pressure under control. This can be especially helpful if you have a history of hypertension.

5.  Variations In Pressure Inside The Cabin

The variations in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing are one of the flying characteristics that passengers notice the most. These fluctuations in pressure have the potential to affect your body in a variety of ways, including your blood pressure. When the pressure within the cabin drops, it might cause your blood’s oxygen level to plummet, which can be dangerous. Because of this, the body responds by quickening the heart rate and narrowing the blood vessels, ultimately increasing blood pressure. These shifts in blood pressure can be especially significant if you have already been diagnosed with hypertension. Caffeine and alcohol contribute to increased blood pressure, so it is best to abstain from them before and during the flight to reduce the negative effects of the fluctuating pressure inside the aircraft. Additionally, swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum can assist in equalizing the pressure in your ears, lowering pain and the possibility of swings in blood pressure.

Conclusion

Long-distance flying can have a variety of consequences on your health, one of which is an increase in your blood pressure. If you can gain an awareness of the elements that lead to changes in blood pressure while flying, you can take preventative measures to reduce the effects of these shifts. Maintaining good blood pressure levels while traveling requires several important lifestyle changes, including staying hydrated, participating in regular activity, effectively managing stress and anxiety, and being mindful of variations in cabin pressure. Contact your primary care physician if you have any pre-existing medical illnesses or concerns about flying before booking your flight. Long-distance travel can be enjoyable while also allowing you to protect your health if you plan and take the necessary precautions.

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