Spring is almost here, which means vacations, traveling and fun! Grandparents are looking forward to seeing their grandchildren. What could ruin this good time? Not feeling well once you land at your destination. Flying is exciting, but it also poses some potential health risks. Here are a few tips to stay healthy while flying.
Flying Tip # 1: Move Around As Much As Possible
This is a rather unfortunate tip for your fellow passenger if you happen to have a window seat. However, you want to make sure you are not sitting still for too long because this can cause deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots, in your legs. This can be a potentially life-threatening condition, especially 30,000 feet in the air. To avoid this, and when it is safe to do so, get up and move around the cabin. Even from your seat, be sure to stretch your arms and legs. This will encourage blood flow and prevent the formation of clots. You can try wearing compression stockings to aid in this, as well.
Flying Tip # 2: Hydration
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids. This will help with a number of different problems, including dry nose and mouth and deep vein thrombosis. Water works well; however, you also do not want to dilute the nutrients in your system. Try something that replenishes your electrolytes, such as Gatorade. Avoid the alcohol. It is not as helpful as you imagine. If you’re prone to sinus problems, you can try using a saline nasal spray before and after your flight.
Flying Tip # 3: Sanitize
Anti-bacterial sanitizer is our friend on a plane. If our immune systems are already compromised due to age or illness, we need to be careful. To help minimize your risk of contacting a virus, use sanitizing wipes on the arms of your seat, as well as the tray. Try to bring your own small pillow, if at all possible. Do not wash your hands in the bathroom, use sanitizer. Countless studies have shown that the water coming out of the faucet on a plane is filled with bacteria. You don’t have to bathe in Purell, just be reasonable and cautious.
Flying Tip # 4: Sleep
Personally, I think this is much easier said than done. I am very anxious when I fly, so sleeping can be difficult. If this happens to you, try these tricks:
- Listen to relaxing music
- Read a book
- Use an eye mask and ear plugs
- Talk to your doctor about a natural sleep aid, such as melatonin. (As with any over-the-counter medications, you want to make sure there will be no interactions with any of your other medications.)
Utilizing these tips will help keep your trip safe and healthy. For more tips on Happy and Healthy Traveling, check out msnbc.com.
Safe Travels!
We hope this was helpful. If you have any questions or if you know of a senior who could benefit from our vast array of home care services in Auburn, , please call us at 334.321.1050 or email us. We accept most long term care insurance as payment and have a full time staff of over 90 trained and certified home care personnel covering the Auburn, Alabama area.
Sourced from: Home Instead Content Library
