How To Overcome Air Sickness/Jetlag

Air sickness or jetlag is at it worst on take and landing. This is due to the steep attitude of the airplane, the sudden increase or decrease in speed and height and the fact that the ground is visible and seems to be rushing past. The difference between what one sees and what the balance area of the ears is telling one is a cause for the brain to become confused. The sickness can be physical or psychological, the latter being caused more by fear than by an actual physical reaction to the conflicting signals being received by the body.

Normally air sickness manifests itself in a feeling of nausea, which may or may not result in actual sickness, as well as sweating, digestive disturbance and the need to swallow much more than normal.

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Following are some ways to avoid air sickness/Jetlag

  • Stress or fear can cause air sickness because an already emotionally disturbed brain has even more difficulty interpreting the conflicting signals from eyes and ears. So try to relax, don’t get stressed and if you already have a fear of flying, take a mild sedative an hour before take off is scheduled.
  • A full stomach can contribute to air sickness, so eat and drink sparingly before getting on plane.
  • Once on board, even when the seat belt signs have been turn off, remain in your seat if possible. If your balance is impaired, any sudden motion of the aircraft is likely to cause sickness.
  • Take anti-air sickness tablets in accordance with the instructions on the box or use the special wristbands on sale in many airport terminals, which are set to have a beneficial effect.
  • Try not to think about air sickness because the more you do, the more you are likely to feel sick. Concentrate on a book or film or get some sleep and you will soon find that you have forgotten about feeling sick.

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