Is it normal to have a cold after flying?

In terms of the common cold, it is now well-accepted that acute respiratory infections are frequently experienced after air travel. So it's no surprise when we find ourselves getting sick after flying.



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Many of us will pack our bags and enjoy a nice vacation this year, but some people will return home with more than just a souvenir. The most common health issues that people encounter after a trip include: Minor colds. Fevers.

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The cramped conditions and long periods of being less active on a flight can cause pain, stiffness or swelling of your legs. Being less active can lead to slow blood flow in your veins which increases your risk of developing a blood clot, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVTs most commonly form in the legs.

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While many people believe that recirculated, germy air is the main culprit of illness after a plane ride, the real reason why flying can cause us to get sick is from low humidity.

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Planes also have very little humidity and the dry air can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat.

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Not only does jet lag cause that weary feeling, it can have some flu-like symptoms too. From headaches and nausea, to shivering, some people even suffer gastrointestinal problems.

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Planes have a different atmospheric pressure than we are used to, which can cause the nasal passages to dry, leading to symptoms resembling flu.

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Low humidity on airplanes
Low humidity can cause the nasal passages to dry out and cause irritation in the nose and throat. On top of that, bacteria and viruses can survive longer in low-humidity environments, making it harder for your body to fight off any infections you might catch aboard a plane.

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Jet belly: (noun) the bloated state in which your stomach inflates post-flight. Also, a very unpleasant feeling. May also make you look like you're 3 months pregnant. So how does one prevent this jet belly? Well, it all depends on what you eat on the plane.

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