Does flying affect IBD?

Flying causes an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots - particularly in flights over eight hours long. Having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can put you at a three times greater risk of developing DVT than the general population, with flares creating an even further risk1.



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During travel, people tend to have higher stress levels and changes in their daily patterns. They may also eat different foods than usual. Any one or a combination of these factors could trigger an IBS flare in some individuals.

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Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common and typically harmless. The most likely culprit is inactivity during a flight. Sitting with your feet on the floor for a long period causes blood to pool in your leg veins. The position of your legs when you are seated also increases pressure in your leg veins.

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The air pressure makes you bloated and gassy. That lower pressure causes the gases in your gut to expand, resulting in bloating and gassiness, Dr. Movassaghi says. That can make your stomach feel uncomfortably full or crampy, or make you fart more.

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Your digestive system is hard at work on your flight so it's important to understand the stress that bloating after flying has on your overall health. Because you have excess gas taking up room inside of your intestines, bloating can be uncomfortable and take the form of stomach pain and issues passing gas.

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The air pressure in an airplane cabin is lower than at sea level. This allows for air and gas to expand in the intestines, causing the stomach to cramp. Low impact exercises, such as yoga and cycling, are a great way to relieve and prevent IBS symptoms. Be sure to repeat these exercises after you land.

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