What happens to the heart when you fly
According to Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist for heart failure and heart transplant (working in Memphis, Tennessee, USA), cabin pressure, dry air and long periods of sitting can negatively affect blood circulation and heart function.
Many people think flying is just sitting still on a chair, says Dr. Yaranov. In fact, the body and especially the heart are working very hard to adapt to the above conditions".
According to Dr. Yaranov, when the pressure in the cabin decreases, the amount of oxygen in the body also decreases, causing the heart to work harder to maintain blood circulation. The air in the plane is drier than outside the desert, leading to rapid dehydration, causing blood to thicken and the heart to pump more strongly.
Sitting for long periods of time also causes slow blood circulation, easily causing swelling in the legs or deep vein thrombosis. In addition, dry respiratory mucous membranes weaken the immune barrier, making the body susceptible to viruses or bacteria in closed spaces.
The feeling of fatigue after flights is not just due to time travel, but a physiological reaction when the heart and nervous system have to work overloaded in an environment lacking oxygen, the doctor explained.
How to protect your heart on every flight
To minimize cardiovascular risks, Dr. Yaranov recommends some simple but effective habits:
- Drink enough water before and during the flight, do not wait until you are thirsty to drink.
- Avoid salt and alcohol, as both increase blood thickness.
- Stretch every hour to improve blood circulation.
- Use a saline spray before takeoff to protect the respiratory tract.
- Light walking after landing helps restore normal heart rate and oxygen levels.
Little habits make a big difference when you land. The heart is the most loyal companion and take care of it properly, Dr. Yaranov noted.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have health questions).
