The best way to stay healthy while flying would be if everyone heeded the advice of medical experts and steered clear of the airport when ailing. Due to the risk of spreading germs to others and the chance of getting sicker while traveling, it’s generally not a good idea to fly while sick.
“Stay home if you’re sick. It’s not only bad for you personally, but you put others at risk – both passengers and crew members,” says Dr. Larissa Dudley, an emergency doctor and Medical Director for Health First’s First Flight.
Plane travel can also cause discomfort and aggravate your existing conditions, in addition to spreading sickness.
The Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) explains that the low humidity in an airplane cabin can cause discomfort, particularly dry skin and eye irritation for sensitive people. If you already have a sore throat or dry cough the plane air can aggravate your symptoms.
“Since the air on a plane is so dry, your body loses moisture faster than usual, so staying hydrated essential. Be sure to increase your fluid intake,” says Dr. Dudley. “Using lubricating drops while flying can make irritated eyes feel better, as can wearing glasses instead of contact lenses.”
AsMA also suggests avoiding carbonated beverages and applying skin lotion or moisturizer.
“If you’re prone to airsickness, pick a seat in front of the wings,” suggests Dr. Dudley. “It’s a more stable part of the plane,” because it is closer to the plane’s center of gravity.
Wondering whether to wear a mask? “N95 masks still offer the most protection against spreading infection because their snug fit prevents any droplets that you sneeze or cough from becoming airborne,” says Dr. Dudley.
Fodor’s Travel says that it’s also worth noting that although the cabin environment onboard an aircraft is certainly close quarters, it’s an well-ventilated one. Fresh outside air is sucked in, warmed and pressurized, and pumped into the passenger cabin. On average, cabin air changes completely every 90 minutes.
Travelers with reduced immune function, as well as those who live with – or are often around those who do – are typically advised to wear masks in places where they will come into contact with others.
“The planes aren’t the only danger zone,” says Dr. Dudley. “Airports themselves, including restrooms and all surfaces, are loaded with germs.”
Carrying hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes will allow you to keep the area around you clean.
It’s a good idea to wipe down armrests, seat belt locking mechanisms, and tray tables just to be safe. Before you eat, clean your area – and your hands – again.
Blood clots are another danger for some. People who travel long distances by air may be at risk, according to the CDC.
“Talk to your doctor before you travel if you think you may be at increased risk for blood clots, such as if you had a previous blood clot, and learn the signs and symptoms of blood clots and steps you can take to reduce your risk when you travel,” the agency advises.
“Move your legs frequently when on long trips and exercise your calf muscles to improve the flow of blood. If you’ve been sitting for a long time, take a break to stretch your legs. Extend your legs straight out and flex your ankles, pulling your toes toward you. Some airlines suggest pulling each knee up toward the chest and holding it there with your hands on your lower leg for 15 seconds and repeat up to 10 times. These types of activities help to improve the flow of blood in your legs.”
When it comes to blood clot prevention, follow your doctor’s orders, says Dr. Dudley. “Not everyone has the same risk level, although everyone needs to flex their feet and get up and walk around, particularly on longer flights.”
Medical Air Service Worldwide adds that flying with a fever can impact your chance of thrombosis. Someone who is already feeling ill or weak likely will move around less than a healthy passenger. In addition to normal dehydration, the fever may result in an increased requirement for fluid.
Fever is often caused by an infection, which can lead to inflammation that may further slow the flow of the blood, increasing the risk of thrombosis.
Northwestern Medicine says that while less crucial than leg stretches, stretching your upper body is a good idea, too. Bring your chest down to meet your thighs to stretch out your back and reach out in front of you to stretch your arms.
Dr. Dudley suggests not flying if you’re coughing, sneezing or if you have a sore throat.
These symptoms may be indications of more severe conditions that can develop later, and they can be exacerbated by the pressure differences during the flight.
Other health conditions that medical experts say should “ground” you include ear or sinus infections and untreated toothaches and postponed root canals.
Dr. Dudley suggests everyone sees their healthcare professional for specific information about when they should or should not fly and how to stay healthy while flying.
Larissa Dudley, MD, is an emergency medicine specialist in Melbourne. She graduated from the St. Georges University School of Medicine. She is board certified in EMS and Emergency Medicine. Dr. Dudley is a Medical Director for Health First’s First Flight Air Ambulance program.
