Jet lag, that frustrating travel companion, typically fades within a few days. Your body’s internal clock, cleverly known as your circadian rhythm, just needs time to recalibrate. However, the severity and duration depend on several factors: the number of time zones crossed (the bigger the jump, the longer the lag), your direction of travel (westward generally easier than eastward), and your individual sensitivity.
Minimizing the misery: While waiting for your body to adjust, consider these strategies:
- Hydrate: Dehydration exacerbates jet lag. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey and at your destination.
- Light exposure: Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Get some sun exposure upon arrival to help reset your internal clock.
- Gradual adjustment: Try to shift your sleep schedule gradually in the days leading up to your trip.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These can disrupt your sleep further.
When to seek help: Persistent sleep problems or unusual symptoms warrant a doctor’s visit. A sleep study may be recommended if your jet lag significantly impacts your daily life. Remember, everyone experiences jet lag differently; what’s a minor inconvenience for one traveler might be debilitating for another.
Pro Tip: For long-haul flights, particularly eastward journeys, consider a melatonin supplement. However, consult your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you are on other medications.
How do I stop being jet-lagged?
Jet lag – that dreadful feeling of being out of sync with your body clock – is a common travel woe. But conquering it isn’t about simply enduring the discomfort; it’s about proactive strategies. Here’s what seasoned travelers know:
Timing is Key: Arriving early at your destination gives your body more time to adjust. Don’t underestimate this; even a few extra hours can make a significant difference. The added time allows for a less rushed acclimatization process.
Pre-Trip Preparation: Begin adjusting your sleep schedule *before* your trip. Shift your bedtime and wake-up time gradually in the days leading up to your departure to align with the time zone you’re heading to. This “pre-acclimatization” is crucial.
Mastering Light Exposure: Light plays a pivotal role in regulating your circadian rhythm. Upon arrival, maximize exposure to sunlight during the daytime hours. This helps synchronize your body clock with the new time zone more efficiently. Conversely, limit exposure to bright lights at night.
On-Board Strategies: If your flight aligns with nighttime at your destination, prioritize sleep. Wear an eye mask, earplugs, and utilize those tiny airplane pillows for comfort. Staying hydrated is also crucial; avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
Discipline is Paramount: Once you arrive, resist the urge to nap excessively during the day. Stick to your new schedule as much as possible. Even if you’re exhausted, fight the urge for a midday snooze. This is often the most challenging, yet most effective, aspect of battling jet lag.
Hydration and Nutrition: Dehydration exacerbates jet lag symptoms. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey and at your destination. Eat light, healthy meals to maintain energy levels and support your body’s natural rhythms. Avoid heavy, rich foods that can disrupt your digestion.
Consider Melatonin: Some travelers find melatonin supplements helpful in regulating their sleep patterns, particularly for long-haul flights crossing multiple time zones. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
- Prioritize Sleep Before Your Trip: Ensure you’re well-rested before embarking on your journey. Being sleep-deprived makes jet lag significantly worse.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip.
What is the best antidote for jet lag?
Jet lag: that dreaded traveler’s companion. But fear not, seasoned globetrotters have a secret weapon: melatonin.
This sleep hormone is a widely studied and frequently prescribed remedy. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, even when drastically disrupted by crossing multiple time zones. Essentially, it helps you fall asleep when your internal clock is screaming it’s the middle of the day.
However, melatonin isn’t a magic bullet. Its efficacy depends on several factors. Dosage is crucial; start with a low dose and adjust based on your body’s response. Consulting your doctor before starting any new supplement is always advisable.
Beyond melatonin, experienced travelers know that a holistic approach is key. Consider these additional tips:
- Hydration: Dehydration exacerbates jet lag. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey.
- Light exposure: Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Get some sunlight upon arrival at your destination to help reset your clock.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These substances disrupt sleep patterns, worsening jet lag symptoms.
- Gradual adjustment: If possible, shift your sleep schedule a bit each day before your trip to ease the transition.
- Strategic napping: Short naps can be beneficial, but avoid long naps that can further disrupt your sleep cycle.
Remember, jet lag recovery is a process. Be patient with yourself, and prioritize rest and hydration. Using a combination of these strategies, you can minimize the impact of jet lag and maximize your enjoyment of your trip.
Should you nap when jet-lagged?
Jet lag hitting you hard on your trek? Short power naps, no more than 30 minutes, can be your secret weapon. Think of it as a quick fuel-up for your body’s internal clock.
Key to success: Avoid long naps, as these can disrupt your nighttime sleep. Aim for at least a 4-hour wake window before hitting the sack. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm, essential for summiting that peak with energy.
Pro-tip: Consider timing your nap strategically. A mid-afternoon nap can help you push through that afternoon slump and prepare for an evening hike under the stars.
- Maximize your nap: Find a quiet spot, preferably in the shade, away from direct sunlight. A comfortable position is crucial for a truly restorative rest.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration worsens jet lag. Pack plenty of water, especially during high-altitude treks.
Remember, your body is working overtime adjusting. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard, especially during the first few days. Prioritize getting enough sleep to conquer those challenging trails.
Why won’t my airplane headache go away?
That airplane headache? It’s probably a classic case of altitude-induced discomfort, common among us adventure-seekers. Jet lag is the usual culprit – your body’s internal clock is totally scrambled from crossing time zones, messing with your sleep-wake cycle. Think of it as your body protesting a sudden, extreme change in its usual routine.
Fatigue and dehydration are also major players. The recycled air on planes is incredibly drying, and we often forget to drink enough water at altitude. Combine that with potential sleep deprivation from a long flight or adjusting to a new time zone, and bam – headache city. Less obvious, but still possible, is something called spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH).
SIH sounds scary, but it’s basically a headache triggered by a CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) leak. This might happen after vigorous activities which we enjoy, or sometimes even from the pressure changes during flight. It’s rare, but the symptoms (headache worsened by sitting up, relieved by lying down) can mimic the symptoms of a standard altitude-related headache.
Here’s what to do to minimize your risk:
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Before, during, and after your flight. Electrolyte drinks can be beneficial.
- Prioritize sleep: Try to adjust your sleep schedule gradually before a long flight.
- Manage stress: A long journey is stressful. Practice relaxation techniques.
- Consult a doctor: If the headache is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention.
Remember, prevention is key, especially when pushing your physical limits on the trail, or in the air!
How bad is jet lag for your body?
Jet lag? Yeah, I know it well. It’s basically your body’s grumpy protest after screwing with its internal clock by crossing multiple time zones – think three or more as a general rule, but even shorter hops can leave you feeling wrecked. It’s not just tiredness; it’s a full-blown disruption.
Think of it this way: your circadian rhythm, that 24-hour internal cycle governing sleep, hormones, and body temperature, gets completely out of whack. This leads to a whole cocktail of unpleasantness.
- Sleep issues: Obvious one, right? Insomnia, waking up too early, or just feeling groggy all day.
- Mood swings: Irritability, feeling down, or even a bit anxious – not ideal when you’re trying to conquer a new trail or summit a peak.
- Cognitive impairment: Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and slower reaction times. Definitely not what you want when navigating challenging terrain.
- Physical symptoms: Headaches, digestive issues (hello, traveler’s tummy!), and muscle aches. All adding to the overall misery.
Minimizing the impact: For me, it’s all about preparation. I try to adjust my sleep schedule gradually *before* I even leave. Hydrating well, avoiding excessive alcohol, and getting some sunlight upon arrival help too. And remember, prioritizing rest is crucial; push yourself too hard too soon and you’ll pay for it.
Severity varies: It depends on several factors including how many time zones you cross, your age (older folks tend to struggle more), and your individual sensitivity to disruptions in the circadian rhythm. Some people bounce back quickly while others take days to recover.
How do flight attendants avoid jet lag?
Combating jet lag effectively requires a proactive approach, not just reacting to symptoms. My strategy focuses on pre-flight preparation and post-flight adjustment.
Pre-Flight: Begin adjusting your sleep schedule several days before your flight. Gradually shift your bedtime and wake-up time to align with your destination’s time zone. This helps your body naturally adapt. Hydrate consistently, avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine. Choose light meals before your flight to avoid digestive issues.
In-Flight: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine as these dehydrate you. Move around the cabin regularly to improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Try to sleep as much as possible, using an eye mask and earplugs to block out light and noise. Adjust your watch to your destination’s time immediately.
Post-Flight: Upon arrival, expose yourself to sunlight to regulate your circadian rhythm. This signals your body to adjust to the new time zone. A shower is indeed beneficial, helping you to feel refreshed. Eat light meals, focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid heavy or greasy foods. Gentle exercise, such as a walk, is preferable to intense workouts initially.
Specific Tactics:
- Melatonin Supplements: Consider a low dose of melatonin (consult your doctor first), taken a few hours before your desired bedtime at your destination.
- Light Therapy: Exposure to bright light, particularly in the morning, can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
- Avoid Napping: Resist the urge to nap upon arrival, unless it’s a short power nap (20-30 minutes max) in the early afternoon to avoid disrupting your nighttime sleep.
Sample Schedule (adjust based on your flight and destination):
- Arrive at destination; take a refreshing shower.
- Engage in some light outdoor activity to get exposed to sunlight.
- Consume a light and nutritious meal.
- Engage in some gentle exercise.
- Avoid long naps.
- Prepare for an early bedtime. Aim for 10 p.m. local time (or adjust based on your destination time zone).
Remember consistency is key. Adhering to a regular sleep schedule, even on your first few days, significantly aids in jet lag recovery.
How do pilots deal with jet lag?
Jet lag is a real challenge for frequent travelers, but manageable with a proactive approach. My strategy focuses on aligning with my destination’s time zone as quickly as possible.
Arrival Timing is Key: Getting to my accommodation by 11 am allows for a restorative 1-2 hour nap. Arriving later? I push through until a normal bedtime in the destination’s time zone. This helps regulate my circadian rhythm.
Strategic Napping: Even if I sleep on arrival, a short 20-minute power nap in the late afternoon combats the slump many experience. These brief rests provide a significant boost without disrupting nighttime sleep.
Beyond Napping: Several other techniques maximize my chances of quick acclimatization. These include:
- Hydration: I drink plenty of water throughout the flight and upon arrival to combat dehydration, a major jet lag contributor.
- Light Exposure: Getting sunlight upon arrival helps reset my internal clock. A morning walk works wonders.
- Dietary Adjustments: I avoid heavy meals close to bedtime and favor lighter options in the days following a long flight.
- Melatonin (with caution): Some find melatonin supplements helpful, but I’d recommend consulting your doctor first. It’s not a guaranteed solution and can have side effects.
Consistency is Crucial: Sticking to a regular sleep schedule, even if it feels unnatural at first, is more effective than sporadic naps or inconsistent bedtimes.
Is jet lag worse east or west?
Jet lag isn’t about north or south; it’s all about time zones. You won’t experience it on a flight between, say, Miami and Buenos Aires, even if it’s long, unless you cross multiple time zones. That’s a crucial point often overlooked.
The prevailing wisdom – backed by research – suggests that eastward travel is typically tougher. About three-quarters of travelers report more severe jet lag when flying east. Why? It boils down to our internal body clocks, our circadian rhythms. Our bodies generally prefer to adjust to later wake-up times (westward travel) than to earlier ones (eastward travel).
However, this is a generalization. Individual experiences vary wildly. Factors like your age, the number of time zones crossed, your pre-flight sleep schedule, and even your genetic predisposition all play a role. I’ve seen seasoned globetrotters breeze through eastbound journeys while others struggle westbound. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Tips to mitigate jet lag regardless of direction:
- Adjust your sleep schedule *before* your flight to gradually align with your destination’s time.
- Stay hydrated during the flight; avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
- Expose yourself to sunlight upon arrival to help reset your circadian rhythm.
- Consider melatonin supplements (consult your doctor first).
- Keep your daily routine as consistent as possible, even if you’re only able to adjust it gradually.
In short: East or west, minimizing jet lag requires a proactive approach. Preparation is key. The direction of travel is just one piece of the puzzle.
Should you nap with jet lag?
Jet lag is a real pain, but strategic napping can be a lifesaver. Short naps, under 30 minutes, are your friend during the adjustment period. They can boost alertness and improve performance, especially if you’re facing a crucial day of sightseeing or meetings.
However, avoid long naps – those can disrupt your nighttime sleep, making jet lag worse. Think of it as a quick energy boost, not a full sleep cycle replacement. Aim for a nap at least four hours before your planned bedtime to avoid interfering with your body’s attempt to synchronize with the new time zone.
Here’s what else helps:
- Hydration is key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dehydration, a common jet lag trigger.
- Light exposure: Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Get outside, especially in the morning, to help reset your internal clock.
- Meal timing: Try to eat meals at times consistent with your destination’s time zone to further synchronize your body clock.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These substances can negatively impact your sleep quality.
Consider your flight schedule. If you have a long overnight flight, aim for a short nap on arrival to ease the transition. If your flight arrives in the early afternoon, you may wish to try and stay awake until evening to avoid being tired on the first day and then you can sleep a more comfortable full night’s sleep.
Remember, everyone reacts to jet lag differently. Experiment to find what works best for you. Be patient – your body will eventually adjust.
Should I sleep on the plane to avoid jet lag?
Sleeping on overnight flights to combat jet lag is a common strategy, and often a successful one, especially if you arrive in the morning. It allows your body to adjust to the new time zone gradually during the flight itself.
However, the success of this strategy hinges heavily on your ability to actually sleep. And that’s where things get tricky.
Seat Selection is Key: Avoid seats near galleys or lavatories. The constant movement and noise from flight attendants and other passengers using these facilities will significantly disrupt your sleep. Similarly, seats near the engines are noisier. Consider paying extra for a better seat, perhaps an exit row or a premium seat with more legroom and a better recline.
Optimize Your Sleep Environment:
- Bring your own sleep aid: A neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs can make a world of difference. Consider also a sleep supplement, but consult your doctor beforehand.
- Dress comfortably: Loose, comfortable clothing is essential for a good night’s sleep. Layers are helpful for adjusting to changing cabin temperatures.
- Hydrate: Dehydration can make it harder to sleep. Drink plenty of water, but avoid too much alcohol or caffeine before bed.
Beyond Sleep: Other Jet Lag Tips:
- Start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your flight. Gradually shift your bedtime and wake-up time closer to your destination’s time zone.
- Expose yourself to sunlight upon arrival. This helps to reset your body clock.
- Eat light meals on the plane and avoid heavy, greasy foods. These can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable.
In short: While sleeping on a plane can significantly reduce jet lag, it requires planning and preparation. Choosing the right seat and utilizing sleep aids are crucial to maximizing your chances of a restful flight and a smoother transition to your new time zone.
Should you nap when jet lagged?
Jet lag is a traveler’s nemesis, but strategically napping can be a powerful weapon in your arsenal. Short power naps, ideally under 30 minutes, can significantly boost alertness and cognitive function during those crucial first few days in a new time zone. Think of it as a targeted intervention to combat the fatigue and disorientation.
The key is brevity. Longer naps can disrupt your nighttime sleep, exacerbating jet lag. Aim for that sweet spot – a short burst to recharge, not a full sleep cycle. A 20-minute nap is often ideal, allowing you to avoid sleep inertia (that groggy feeling after waking).
Timing is everything. Avoid napping too close to your planned bedtime. A general rule of thumb is to allow at least four hours between your nap and your intended sleep time. This gives your body time to properly transition and ensures a more restful night’s sleep.
Beyond napping, consider these additional tips for combating jet lag:
- Hydrate: Dehydration worsens jet lag. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey and stay hydrated at your destination.
- Light exposure: Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Get outside and soak up some sun, especially in the morning, to help adjust to the local time.
- Moderate caffeine and alcohol: While a small amount of caffeine might provide a temporary boost, overdoing it can disrupt sleep patterns. Similarly, alcohol can interfere with sleep quality.
- Melatonin supplements (with caution): Some find melatonin helpful, but consult your doctor before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
By combining smart napping strategies with these additional tips, you can significantly reduce the impact of jet lag and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
How do you relieve head pressure after flying?
That familiar head pressure after a flight? It’s the result of cabin pressure changes affecting your sinuses. While simple maneuvers often suffice, understanding the underlying cause helps maximize relief.
The basics: Chewing gum, yawning, swallowing repeatedly, or the Valsalva maneuver (gently holding your nose and exhaling) all help equalize pressure. These actions encourage airflow through your Eustachian tubes, connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat.
Pro-tip for seasoned travelers: Decongestants taken *before* your flight can significantly reduce pressure build-up. However, consult your doctor beforehand, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. Similarly, staying hydrated throughout your journey keeps nasal passages moist and helps maintain proper Eustachian tube function. Avoid alcohol and caffeine pre-flight as they can dehydrate you.
Beyond the basics: If pressure persists despite these techniques, consider these further steps:
- Gentle nasal irrigation: A saline nasal spray or rinse can clear congestion.
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any associated pain.
When to seek medical attention: Persistent, severe pain, hearing loss, or dizziness after flying warrants a visit to a doctor. These could indicate a more serious issue.
How to depuff after flying?
After a long flight, your body needs a serious hydration boost. Guzzle water like you’re summiting Everest – way more than usual for the first 24 hours. This flushes out excess sodium, reducing puffiness and bloating. Think of it as rehydrating your entire system, not just quenching thirst.
Boost circulation. Movement is key! Even light activity like a brisk walk will get your blood flowing and help disperse that fluid retention. Forget the airport lounge, get outside and explore. This is way more effective than just sitting around.
Caffeine? Moderate your intake. While a coffee might seem appealing, too much can dehydrate you, worsening the puffiness. Consider electrolyte-rich drinks instead; they help replenish what you lost during the flight and improve hydration.
Consider these extra tips:
- Elevate your legs whenever possible during the flight and immediately after landing. Gravity is your friend here.
- Gentle stretching or yoga can improve circulation and alleviate muscle stiffness from being seated for so long.
- Eat light, whole foods. Processed foods often contain high amounts of sodium, contributing to bloating. Opt for fruits and vegetables.
How long does a jet belly last?
Jet lag’s impact on your digestive system, often called “jet belly,” usually manifests as abdominal discomfort and mild swelling. It’s rarely serious and typically subsides within a week of arrival. However, the duration can vary depending on the length and direction of your flight, your individual sensitivity, and your pre-flight dietary habits.
To minimize jet belly:
- Stay hydrated throughout your flight. Dehydration exacerbates digestive issues.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you and disrupt your gut microbiome.
- Choose easily digestible foods during the flight and immediately after landing. Think bland options like rice, bananas, toast.
- Consider taking probiotics before, during, and after your flight to support gut health. Many travelers swear by them.
Natural remedies that some find helpful include:
- Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties, ginger can soothe an upset stomach.
- Chamomile tea: A relaxing beverage that can aid digestion.
Important Note: If your symptoms persist beyond a week, or are severe (e.g., intense pain, vomiting, diarrhea), seek medical advice. This isn’t typical jet belly, and could indicate something else entirely.
Is it okay to take ibuprofen before flying?
Planning to pop some ibuprofen before your flight? It’s generally fine, but timing is key. Taking it at least an hour beforehand is crucial to allow it to take effect before takeoff. This ensures you’re comfortable during ascent and descent, when ear pressure changes can be most noticeable.
Why the hour wait? It gives the medication enough time to enter your bloodstream and start working. This is especially important if you’re prone to headaches or earaches, common travel companions. Remember, ibuprofen is an NSAID and can thin your blood slightly – always check with your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions before taking any medication, particularly before air travel.
Beyond Ibuprofen: Medication Considerations
- Antihistamines and Decongestants: These also benefit from pre-flight administration for similar reasons. They can help alleviate allergy symptoms aggravated by recirculated air on planes.
- Motion Sickness Medication: Take this well in advance, as it often needs time to become fully effective. Consider taking it even earlier, perhaps a couple of hours before departure, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Packing Smart:
- Keep your medication in your carry-on bag. This prevents potential delays or loss if your checked baggage is delayed.
- Carry a copy of your prescription, especially if traveling internationally.
- Consult your doctor about any potential interactions between your medications and altitude changes.
Remember: This information is for general guidance only and doesn’t replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, especially before flying, if you have concerns.
How to prepare for jet lag from a 15 hour flight?
Conquering jet lag from a 15-hour flight requires a multi-pronged approach honed from years of globe-trotting. Preparation is key. Start adjusting your sleep schedule a week before departure, gradually shifting your bedtime and wake-up time to match your destination’s hours. This minimizes the shock to your circadian rhythm. Adequate rest in the days leading up to the flight is crucial; don’t burn the candle at both ends!
Onboard strategies are equally important. Hydration is paramount; avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine. Opt for water, herbal teas, and fresh fruit juices. Protect your digestive system with easily digestible foods. I’ve found blander options work best; avoid heavy meals or spicy dishes during the flight. Gentle movement, like walking up and down the aisle, can aid circulation and combat stiffness.
Light exposure is a game-changer. During your flight, utilize the natural light. If flying east, try to get sun exposure upon arrival; if flying west, limit exposure initially. This helps regulate melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles.
Consider these additional tips:
- Pack an eye mask and earplugs for better sleep on the plane.
- Bring compression socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
- Stay active upon arrival. A brisk walk or light exercise can help reset your internal clock.
- Avoid long naps immediately upon arrival unless it’s nighttime at your destination.
- Consume meals according to your destination’s time zone. This helps to regulate your body’s natural rhythms.
Medications should be approached cautiously. Consult your doctor before taking any sleep aids or jet lag remedies. They can have side effects and aren’t always necessary with a well-structured approach. My experience shows that the body is surprisingly resilient if given the right support.
And finally, embrace the journey! Some degree of jet lag is inevitable with such a long flight, but proper preparation and mindful strategies can significantly minimize its impact.
How do you release pressure after flying?
After countless flights across the globe, I’ve learned that combating air pressure changes isn’t just about popping your ears. It’s a holistic approach to post-flight well-being.
Simple, yet effective techniques:
- Yawning, swallowing, and chewing gum are your first line of defense. These actions stimulate the Eustachian tubes, equalizing pressure.
- Hydration is key. Dehydration exacerbates ear discomfort. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
Beyond the basics:
- Gentle nasal saline sprays can help clear congested nasal passages, improving Eustachian tube function. I always pack some in my travel kit.
- Avoid sleeping with blocked ears. If pressure remains, try gentle ear-clearing techniques or consider nasal decongestants (but check with your doctor first).
- Gentle exercise. A light walk can help increase blood circulation and alleviate any lingering discomfort. Think of it as a post-flight stretch for your ears and body.
- Consider your diet. Avoid alcohol and caffeine before and during flights, as they can dehydrate you.
Remember: While these methods are usually effective, persistent or severe ear pain requires professional medical attention. Don’t hesitate to seek help if needed.
Why is my head throbbing after flight?
That throbbing head after a flight? It’s a common traveler’s woe, and I’ve experienced it myself countless times. The culprit is often the fluctuating cabin pressure. Think of it like this: your head, particularly your sinuses, is a pressure-sensitive area.
As the plane ascends and descends, the cabin pressure changes dramatically, creating a pressure differential between the inside and outside of your sinuses. This can cause pain, and that’s the throbbing you feel. It’s more noticeable during takeoff and landing because that’s when the pressure shifts most significantly.
Here’s what makes it worse:
- Dehydration: Dry cabin air dehydrates you, thickening the mucus in your sinuses and making them more susceptible to pressure changes.
- Pre-existing conditions: If you already suffer from sinus issues or migraines, air travel can exacerbate these problems.
- Altitude: The higher you fly, the greater the pressure difference. Long-haul flights are therefore riskier.
To minimize the risk:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the flight. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Decongestants: Consider taking a nasal decongestant or antihistamine before takeoff (check with your doctor first).
- Chew gum or suck on candy: This helps equalize pressure in your ears and sinuses.
- Breathe deeply: Conscious breathing can help you manage the pressure changes.