We all love to go on holiday. The more exotic the destination, the further away, the better! There is, of course, one big problem with this. Travelling takes time, and long airplane flights can be far from pleasant. While anyone can tough it out for short flights to France from the UK, those taking http://www.etihadairways.com/sites/etihad/global/en/home/Pages/FlightstoAustralia.aspx” style=”text-decoration: none; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);”>flights to Australia would be well advised to take some precautions.\r\n\r\n
Health considerations on long flights
1. Germs. Unfortunately flying, especially over long distances is far from being free of health risks. Some of these risks you can do something about, others unfortunately you just have to put up with. One risk that falls into that category is from germs. On an aeroplane you a trapped in an aluminium tube with several hundred germ filled human beings. In the days when smoking was permitted more widely, fresh air would have to be pumped in. Now the air in just pumped round and around. You could wear one of those face masks you see flu-scared Asians wearing, it might make you feel safer but unfortunately they don’t work. You should dose up on vitamins before and after your flight to help your body’s natural defences.
2. Dehydration. The air in planes is very, very, dry. In order to prevent de-hydration you should drink water before, during and after your flight. Treat it like you would vigorous exercise or sporting activity.
3. Deep Vein Thrombosis. This particularly unpleasant condition can be a killer. To prevent it you should stay hydrated (see above) and also try to get out of your seat and move around as much as possible during the flight. Special socks are also available, and you may want to look into purchasing these.
4. Stress. Body and mind are one. Unless you take care of your mental health, your physical health is bound to suffer. If flying is something that stresses you out consider taking a sedative or drinking alcohol. DO NOT DO BOTH.
5. Boredom. Try to stave off boredom by being asleep if you can. The choice of in flight entertainment may be limited – so remember to snag yourself a good paperback at the airport.
