When people are crammed together with other travelers in an airplane it’s easy to contract an illness. With the recent scare of swine flu cases breaking out worldwide, there’s even an additional reason to be cautious when flying. Besides the declining economy, the fear of getting sick has led to fewer people boarding airliners. However, by taking a few precautions you can enjoy your trip and stay healthy.
Dress Comfortably
The day of your flight, dress comfortably, leaving dress clothing, belts and other tight-fitting garments in your suitcase for when you reach your destination. For your flight, choose loose clothing made from natural fibers.
Wash Your Hands Often
The key to not contracting germs is to constantly wash your hands every time you place them on public surfaces. If you can’t go to the airplane laboratory immediately, be sure not to touch your hands to your mouth, nose or any part of your face. It’s a good idea to include hand-wipes in your carry-on bag.
Don’t Just Sit
When your legs are immobile for long periods of time it’s easier to develop leg clots or a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Also known as “economy-class syndrome”, DVT can occur when sitting and leg room becomes cramped. Before boarding a flight request an aisle seat so you can easily get out of your seat and periodically walk up and down the aisle.
Drink Water
If you don’t have an aisle seat, at least move your legs up and down while sitting. You want to both move your legs and contract your muscles so blood flows only toward the heart, avoiding a possible leg clot. According to the American Heart Association, dehydration and low cabin pressure can also cause leg clots. That’s why it’s good to drink as much water as possible. And, of course if you drink plenty of water you’ll be forced to get up and move more out of your seat. When requesting water from your flight attendant ask her to not include ice to avoid any germs from handling ice.
Keep Skin Moist
Carry a small spray bottle that you can fill with water after you’ve been checked through security. Then, once aboard mist your facial skin. Essential oils are also excellent for skin misting. Chemist and botanist, Pratima Raichur, author of Absolute Beauty advises adding 10 drops of essential oils such as rose, sweet orange, geranium and lemon to four ounces of water. You can either use the oils by themselves or in a combination. Raichur goes on to note that a saline spray solution helps nasal mucous membranes from not drying out. Remember to spray the solution on you before leaving home as liquids can't be carried on board. Use clarified butter to put into your nostrils. Massage basic facial sinus areas near the nostrils. Essential oils dabbed on pulse points can also help you relax.
Don’t Overeat
Avoid indigestion by not overeating. Take healthy snacks along, so you can pass over the sugary, starch snacks and gaseous foods such as cabbage and beans. Rather than drink caffeine, choose tea. Caffeine avoidance is especially important if you have a long night flight overseas and need to rest. Carry packets of green tea in your bag and ask for hot water when your flight attendant offers beverages.
Most of all, keep your immune system healthy by eating properly, as well as getting plenty of rest and exercise before your trip. Avoid stress by preparing for your trip weeks before you leave rather than cramming everything you need to do only days before you depart.
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