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Why do people pass out on airplanes? Fainting is one of the most common medical emergencies on a plane. It can be because of the scarcity of oxygen to the brain and other factors such as dehydration and air cabin pressure. Vasovagal Syncope occurs when the body’s response to specific triggers, such as extreme emotional distress or blood, overwhelms it.
Why Do People Pass Out On Airplanes?
After some research, you can learn why people faint midflight and how to avoid fainting on the next flight. You can undergo medical tests and use online searches to find references and personal accounts of other passengers.
A flight attendant who used to be an RN said fainting is very common. It usually occurs when one has been sitting for a long time, and their blood starts to concentrate in the lower extremities. They then start feeling dizzy and nauseous and try to go for the lav. Almost all fainting occurs outside the lav. Once the body goes horizontal, blood flows evenly throughout the body.
According to Aviation Health, passengers who sit at the rear of aircraft such as the Airbus 340 and the Boeing 767 are more prone to experiencing dizziness and fainting. This condition can occur after a meal. It can be because of a lack of blood supply to the brain.
It usually occurs when a passenger has been sitting for a long time. The cabin’s oxygen deficiency can also cause a person to faint. In addition, alcohol can raise the blood flow to the heart rate and intestines.
Read also: Can You Fly With Pepper Spray? [Explained]
Things To Do When You Feel Like You’re Fainting Midflight?
If you are feeling faint, push the call button to help get immediate assistance. However, do not try and avoid getting up to find someone. Standing up could compel you to pass out much faster. Also, doing so could lead to injury if you fall.
If you can’t see someone coming immediately, you should let a fellow passenger know so they can get help. You might faint if you get anxious or panicky, so try not to get too nervous and remain calm. You can also eat something sweet to help ease the tension.
How To Prevent Yourself From Pass Out On Airplanes?
Getting dehydrated can cause discomfort during a flight, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water and limit alcohol consumption. Also, try to move around to keep your blood circulating.
In your seat, you can do some seated exercises. These include rolling your ankles around, raising your calves, and stretching your legs to keep blood flowing. You can also try drinking or eating something with sugar to prevent and treat your blood sugar.
You can also ask a flight attendant for a drink of water. Although it’s impossible to control the temperature inside the plane’s cabin, you can still help keep the temperature down by staying hydrated.
Helpful Tips To Keep Calm When Flying On An Airplane
Various stimuli, such as impaired memory, a catastrophic thought, or a bodily sensation, can trigger flight anxiety. These triggers can amplify anxiety and increase the risk of panic attacks, leading to an unhealthy feedback loop. If you are not feeling well about a flight, try implementing one or more calming techniques.
Know Your Flight Fears
Understanding the triggers that can trigger fear is vital in overcoming anxiety. For instance, people with different fears may react differently to certain aspects of flying. For instance, while one may be afraid of turbulence, someone with a germaphobic mindset might be more concerned about germs spreading in a confined space.
Most flight phobics are afraid that they will experience overwhelming anxiety during the flight. It is the main reason over 90% of them have this condition. Identifying their fear’s cause is essential before taking action to improve it.
Get Used To Plane Noise
The plane is about to land, and you’re wondering if it’s time to panic. No, it’s not. The seats and the carry-on luggage are moving slightly, just like every time the plane takes off. It is a tiny adjustment that can help you get through the anxiety.
Learn about the typical noises and bumps that can occur during a flight. It also helps to understand the various safety measures an aircraft must meet to operate safely. For instance, if an aircraft is to support a heavy load, it must be able to endure environmental extremes such as temperatures of over 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Inspire Yourself By Looking At Your Destination’s Photos
Visualizing your goal and imagining yourself there can help you manage stress and focus on the end goal. You can do it with or without a photo. A physical image can also help keep your senses focused on the present.
One way to relieve anxiety is to imagine yourself in a safe and comfortable environment. You can do this by removing the things that make you feel nervous about flying.
Don’t Drink Caffeine And Alcohol
Alcohol and caffeine can make you feel more dehydrated, and they can also aggravate anxiety. If you’re nervous about flying, avoid drinking alcohol before the flight. It can make it hard for your body to adjust to being on the plane and cause you to experience jet lag. Instead, try drinking water and eating a light meal before the flight.
Find Distractions
In a nutshell, distraction can help you get through a flight. With the help of various home comforts, such as televisions, magazines, and music channels, airlines can provide you with a sense of home while flying.
One of the most valuable ways to keep yourself occupied during a flight is by bringing a book you’re already reading or watching TV shows. People will feel more comfortable having televisions in their homes and on a plane.
Let Flight Attendants Know You’re Nervous
It’s a good idea to tell people you’re not interested in flying. You may be able to speak with the pilot or get extra attention from the flight attendants. If you’re traveling with friends and family members, talk to them about your fears so they can help ease them. Remember that the conversation should not turn into something other than a contest about having the scariest flight experience.
Being able to rely on others can help keep anxiety at bay. It’s also a good idea to know that there are people who will support you if you need help.
Watch Plane Safety Information
Even though your plane will not crash, you should prepare for all eventualities. That’s why, while you’re at home, you should watch an airline safety video.
Before you take off, take a minute to read the airline’s safety card in the seat pocket. If it makes you feel safe and better, you can book a seat in the back of the plane. This part of the aircraft is in the event of an accident.
Conclusion
Why do people pass out on airplanes? It isn’t very comforting to pass out mid-air, especially when flying across a new country for the first time. The flight attendants underwent preparation and knew when to call the paramedics if they needed them. Had it, it would have been a great example of how travel insurance can help protect you.
Please ask a doctor before flying to ensure your health is ready for the long flight to your chosen destination.
