As air travel picks up again, passengers frequently report discomforts like toothache, bloating, and other symptoms that seem to arise only at 30,000 feet.
Health experts at BeSeen Hub reveal why these issues, especially toothache, occur during flights and offer tips to help you stay comfortable on your next journey.
Why Flying Causes Toothache: “Tooth Squeeze” Explained
Toothache while flying is a common problem known as “tooth squeeze” or barodontalgia. Be Seen Hub’s dental experts explain that it happens due to pressure changes in the aeroplane cabin. Trapped air in cavities, fillings, or other dental issues expands as the cabin pressure decreases at high altitudes, leading to sudden sharp pain.
Prevention Tip: Visit your dentist before flying to ensure that any potential issues such as cavities or damaged fillings are treated. This will minimise the risk of painful surprises during the flight.
The Reason for Bloating and Gas on a Plane
One of the most uncomfortable side effects of flying is bloating. The reason is simple: air pressure changes at high altitudes cause the gases in your digestive system to expand. This can lead to discomfort, gassiness, and bloating. BeSeen Hub’s gastroenterology experts advise that pre-flight meal choices can make a big difference. Foods that are known to produce gas—such as beans, dairy, or carbonated drinks—will worsen the issue.
Prevention Tip: Eat light meals before your flight, avoid carbonated beverages, and stay hydrated throughout the trip. Stretching and walking during the flight can also help alleviate bloating.
Ear Pain and Pressure: Why Your Ears “Pop” on a Plane
Ear discomfort, often experienced as ear popping, is another common issue on flights. The experts at BeSeen Hub explain that rapid changes in altitude affect the air pressure in your inner ear. When the pressure inside your ear doesn’t equalise with the cabin pressure, it causes discomfort or pain.
Prevention Tip: Yawning, swallowing, or chewing gum can help balance ear pressure. For more severe cases, decongestants or specialised earplugs designed for flying may offer relief.
Dry Skin and Dehydration: Why Your Skin Feels Drier on a Plane
The low humidity in aeroplane cabins can dry out your skin, lips, and throat, leading to discomfort, itching, and dehydration. BeSeen Hub’s dermatology experts note that prolonged exposure to such an environment can worsen pre-existing skin conditions like eczema.
Prevention Tip: Apply a rich moisturiser before boarding and reapply during the flight, especially on exposed areas like your hands and face. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can further dehydrate you.
Jet Lag: Why You Feel Exhausted After a Long Flight
Jet lag is caused by crossing time zones quickly, disrupting your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. BeSeen Hub’s sleep specialists recommend adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your flight to match the destination’s time zone as closely as possible.
Prevention Tip: Expose yourself to natural sunlight when you arrive at your destination to help reset your internal clock. Melatonin supplements can also help regulate sleep patterns after a long flight.
Motion Sickness: Why You Feel Nauseous While Flying
Some passengers experience motion sickness during a flight due to the constant movement and lack of visual reference points, leading to nausea and dizziness. BeSeen Hub’s health experts explain that this happens when your inner ear senses motion that your eyes can’t see, creating a mismatch in sensory information.
Prevention Tip: Sitting by the window and focusing on the horizon can help stabilise your senses. Over-the-counter medications for motion sickness, like antihistamines, can also help if you’re prone to nausea while flying.
Conclusion
From toothache to bloating, flying can bring out various discomforts that are often linked to the effects of high altitude and cabin pressure. BeSeen Hub’s health experts emphasise the importance of preparing before your flight with dental check ups, mindful eating, and strategies to manage pressure changes. With a few preventative measures, you can enjoy a more comfortable flight experience.
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