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Why Don’t You Get Altitude Sickness in a Plane?
Have you ever wondered why you don’t get altitude sickness in a plane? After all, planes fly at altitudes of up to 35,000 feet, where the air is much thinner than at sea level. This should theoretically cause altitude sickness, which is a condition that occurs when the body does not get enough oxygen.
However, there are several reasons why you don’t get altitude sickness in a plane. First, the air pressure inside a plane is regulated to be much higher than the air pressure at high altitudes. This means that there is more oxygen available to breathe, even though the air is thinner.
Cabin Pressurization
Commercial aircraft are pressurized to maintain a cabin altitude of around 8,000 feet, even when flying at much higher altitudes. This ensures that the air pressure inside the cabin is similar to that at sea level, providing adequate oxygen to passengers. Additionally, cabin pressurization prevents the formation of air bubbles in body tissues, which can lead to altitude sickness.
The pressurization system in a plane works by pumping air into the cabin and then releasing it through a valve. This keeps the air pressure inside the cabin constant, even as the plane changes altitude. The air that is pumped into the cabin is also filtered and conditioned to remove any impurities or moisture.
Oxygen Supplementation
In addition to cabin pressurization, aircraft are also equipped with supplemental oxygen systems. These systems can provide additional oxygen to passengers in the event of an emergency, such as a sudden loss of cabin pressure. The oxygen is typically stored in tanks and can be delivered to passengers through masks or nasal cannulas.
Oxygen supplementation is particularly important for people who have underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to altitude sickness. These conditions include heart disease, lung disease, and anemia. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor before flying.
Gradual Ascent
Another reason why you don’t get altitude sickness in a plane is because the ascent is gradual. When you climb a mountain, you gain altitude much more quickly than when you fly in a plane. This gives your body time to adjust to the changes in air pressure and oxygen levels.
In contrast, when you fly in a plane, the ascent is much more gradual. This gives your body more time to adjust to the changes in altitude and oxygen levels, which can help to prevent altitude sickness.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are some tips and expert advice to help you avoid altitude sickness when flying:
- Drink plenty of fluids before and during your flight.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate you.
- If you have any underlying health conditions, talk to your doctor before flying.
- If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, or shortness of breath, let a flight attendant know.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of developing altitude sickness when flying.
FAQ
- Can you get altitude sickness in a plane?
- It is possible to get altitude sickness in a plane, but it is rare. The risk of altitude sickness is higher if you have underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, or anemia.
- What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
- The symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
- How can I prevent altitude sickness when flying?
- You can prevent altitude sickness when flying by drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and talking to your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions.
- What should I do if I experience symptoms of altitude sickness when flying?
- If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness when flying, let a flight attendant know. They can provide you with oxygen and help you to manage your symptoms.
Conclusion
Now that you know why you don’t get altitude sickness in a plane, you can relax and enjoy your next flight. Just be sure to follow the tips above to help prevent altitude sickness.
Is there anything else you would like to know about altitude sickness? Let me know in the comments below.
Image: zacalife.com
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