Health Risks During Air Travel

Travelers are often concerned about the health risks of air travel. Although air travel poses more health risks for those with certain pre-existing conditions, healthy passengers may suffer ear pain or jet lag or be exposed to communicable diseases.

• Flying can involve health risks.

Exacerbating Existing Conditions

• The aircraft cabin pressure and dry cabin air can exacerbate some conditions, such as cardiopulmonary disease, cerebrovascular disease, anemia and sickle cell disease. People with chronic disease should consult their doctors before traveling.

Deep-Vein Thrombosis

• Prolonged inactivity can increase the risk for deep-vein thrombosis, the formation of blood clots in a vein. Walking up and down the aisle every half hour and drinking plenty of water can help reduce this risk.

Ear Pain

• Rapid cabin air pressure changes during takeoff and landing often cause intense ear pain. Swallowing, chewing gum and yawning can relieve this pain.

Communicable Diseases

• Healthy travelers may be exposed to communicable diseases from other passengers. People who are infectious should avoid air travel, and all passengers should wash their hands often and cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze.

Jet Lag

• Crossing time zones can cause jet lag, which can involve headaches, upset stomach, nausea and difficulty in sleeping. Getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of water can reduce these effects.