Health risks of long haul flights

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Chicago Ohare International (ORD) is the largest airport in the United States, and it provides you with the facility of travelling to 262 destinations with 49 airlines in the scheduled passenger traffic. The distance from Chicago to Hong Kong is about 7781 miles. When you fly with Cathay Pacific, it takes almost 16 hours to reach Hong Kong. This monstrous flight from Chicago to Hong Kong rewards its passengers with the buzzing energy of Kowloon, majestic views of Victoria Harbour, and with the superb foodie hotspots in all of East Asia.

No need to get gruelling about the very long flight, because it is run by the Skytrax Award of ‘’World Best Airline’’ winner, Cathay Pacific. The experience of travelling with Cathay Pacific is so satisfying and comfortable with its luxurious reclining first-class seats, highly trained and extremely caring staff, and mouth-watering in-flight dining menu.

Hong Kong attracts thousands of visitors and people visit Hong Kong every year for business and pleasure. Cathay Pacific not only provides the opportunity to reach Hong Kong in a non-stop flight, but their crew successfully manages long haul flights. From pilot rest requirement to crew rotation Cathay Pacific deals with all the issues in the best possible way. But still, there are risks of long haul flights, and passengers also have to contribute their part to protect themselves.

  • Dehydration:

Dehydration is the most common issue people face during long haul flights. Usually, the humidity in the cabin remains less than 20%. This super dry air with minimum oxygen makes dehydration a typical symptom. The alcoholic beverages, coffee, sugary food exacerbates the problem. Dehydration dries out body’s mucous membrane and can increase the chances of bacterial infection.

It is essential to hydrate yourself before getting on the plane and drink lots of water during the flight.

  • Deep vein thrombosis:

This is a condition in which blood clots form in a vein deep in the body, usually in the thigh or lower leg. If you don’t move for an extended period, risk increases.

Regular walk around the cabin as often as every two hours can reduce the risk of DVT. Lifting your feet on the floor, making circles with your elbows, and using compression stocking can help you.

  • Radiations:

Every time we fly, we get exposed to cosmic ionizing radiations from the space. Even the Pilots and crew members are considered as radiation workers. Unless you are flying every day, this issue is not really worth worrying about.

  • Medical Emergencies:

Flying can make your body stressed. A combination of low humidity, oxygen, and air pressure causes cramped conditions and dehydration that leave most people feeling irritable. Sometimes, dizziness and fainting may occur, although it is rare.

In a situation of already having a health issue, the flight environment may not be ideal for a passenger. It’s better to take advice from your doctor about the healthiest way to make it to your destination, even it means a little more time in transit.

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