Flying in an airplane can be make even the most experienced passenger a little nervous but if you also suffer from air sickness your journey has the potential to be much worse.
As a regular air traveller I find that air sickness, or what my mind conceives as the threat of it happening, is always at its worst on take off and landing and this is generally the same for other travellers who also suffer from the condition. Medical evidence shows that the reason for this is a combination of the steep altitude of the airplane, the sudden increase or decrease in the speed and height of the airplane and in many cases because the ground is visible and appears to be rushing past.
The air sickness you feel can be a physical or a psychological reaction to these events. Studies have proven that stress and fear are causes of air sickness. This is because an already emotionally affected brain has further disruption caused by conflicting signals received from the eyes and ears. It is important to try to relax and not to feel stressed. If you have a real fear of flying, it may be advisable to take a mild sedative before boarding the air plane.
The condition does not always result in being physically sick. Here are some tips to avoid air sickness:
- A full stomach can certainly contribute to air sickness. So before flying, eat and drink as little as possible. Avoid alcohol completely.
- When the airplane has taken off and the fasten seat belts lights have been turned, it is always best to still stay in your seat.
- There are several recommended anti-air sickness tablets on the market that can be effective for some people. Many airport s also sell special wristbands that are said to reduce the risk of suffering from air sickness.
- Another important point I find, is to try not to think about being sick because the more you do, the more likely it is to happen. Read a book or watch a movie or even get some sleep and you will take your mind away from thinking about being sick.
