Can traveling make you congested?
Can traveling make you congested? There are multiple factors play into why people get sick after a long flight. The dry air, low pressure, and the low amount of oxygen cause the immune system to weaken and can lead to inflamed sinus cavities.
Is it common to get a cold while traveling?
Studies show you're anywhere from 20 to 113 percent more likely to catch a cold while traveling.” Which means you need to be proactive. The odds are not stacked in your favor when you're on the road, so we interviewed medical professionals about how to avoid the plague as best as possible.
Does flying make nasal congestion worse?
Airplane air is dryer than typical air. The low humidity of cabin air can inflame the sinus's delicate mucous membranes. The lack of moisture can also disrupt their natural cleaning process—leaving you more vulnerable to infection.
Is it OK to fly with a stuffy nose?
PLEASE NOTE: You should avoid flying if your nose is congested from a cold or allergies. In the most severe case, this may lead to a permanent decrease in your hearing, prolonged dizziness, or severe pain.
What is the best decongestant for air travel?
Spray Afrin nasal decongestant spray twice into each nostril one hour prior to flying. Begin taking a decongestant, like Sudafed, one hour before the flight. Both of these medications can be purchased over-the-counter in a drug store.