DVT - DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS
A deep vein thrombosis occurs when blood clots in the deep veins of the legs.
A clot that passes up the blood vessels and through the heart can become lodged in one of the small blood vessels supplying the lungs. The result is that this can cut off the oxygen supply to the body. This potentially fatal condition is known as a pulmonary embolism.
PREVENTION:
Drink plenty of water, and steer clear of alcoholic drinks and those containing caffeine in order to reduce dehydration, which increases the risk of blood clots.
Don't keep to your seat throughout the flight, walk around the plane regularly.
While seated, exercise the calf muscles every half hour by flexing and rotating the ankles for a few minutes.
Sleep only for short periods and do not take sleeping pills that could keep you motionless for hours.
Unless your doctor has told you not to take aspirin, take one before getting on the flight. Aspirin makes it more difficult for blood to clot.
JET LAG
Jet-lag is one of the most common problems of modern jet travel affecting as many as 94% of long distance travelers. Some of the symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Disorientation
- Lack of concentration and motivation
- Dehydration
Discomfort of legs and feetMedical evidence also shows that jet lag makes travelers more susceptible to colds, flu and stomach upsets.
PREVENTION:
Start Rested - The preparation for a long trip often means you're tired before you begin. If at all possible, get enough rest in the days prior to your trip, so you can start out strong and full of energy.
Sleep - It's best if you can sleep on the plane. Earplugs, eyeshades, and a comfortable neck pillow are well worth the effort of packing if they prevent you from losing a day to jet lag. Try to take care of as many travel details as possible before you leave so that flight day is stress and anxiety-free, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Set your watch to the destination time as soon as you board the plane.
"No Jet-Lag" - Many travelers have depended successfully on No-Jet-Lag to help them feel fresh on arrival. It's a surprisingly effective, natural homeopathic product that addresses all the symptoms of jet lag, not just sleeplessness.
Drink Water - Lots of it. Plan on 8 to 16 ounces during each hour of travel. Taking your own water bottle can save you the awkwardness of repeatedly pressing the "call button" for another glass of water, and will help you resist caffeinated and sugared drinks, which can actually make you more dehydrated. Have a nice, long hot bath when you arrive to rehydrate and relax. While a drink or two may relax you, alcohol can dehydrate you, making
your symptoms worse. Also, Flight Safety Expert Diana Fairechild (author
of Jet Smarter) says "Avoid sleeping pills and mind-altering
pharmaceuticals on the day you fly. In the event of an emergency, you
will need all your faculties in order to survive."
Exercise - The long periods of sitting on an airplane, bus, or train are hard on your body. Walking and stretching exercises in flight will help your body adjust to the new climate. To help reset your body clock, try to stay awake until bedtime rather than taking a nap upon arrival - spending time outdoors seems to help most travelers.
Experience - As you travel, experiment to find the system that works best for you. Some travelers forswear all naps, others insist on them. Keeping note of your experiences will help you get the most from future trips. Consult with fellow travelers, too. Their experiences can help you avoid days lost to jet lag discomfort. Ask your travel agent for scheduling options that have you landing early evening so you can go to bed and start fresh the next day. It might cost a little more but it’s money well spent.
CARRIER HYGIENE
2 items you should never leave home without are an anti-bacterial ointment and hand cleanser. Put a couple of daubs of the ointment in your nostrils to help kill bacteria before it can enter your lungs and wipe table trays, arm rests, air flow controls etc with the cleanser when you settle in your seat.
