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How to Manage High Blood Pressure While Flying
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There are many misconceptions regarding flying in the minds of people
suffering from high blood pressure. It is usually thought that flying is dangerous situation for
hypertensive patients as it puts additional pressure on their hearts. In truth, if you are
hypertensive and are on medication which keeps your blood pressure under control, then your health
is as safe as when you are on ground. Flying does not have any effect on the medication of high
blood pressure. It is safe to fly for hypertension sufferers because airplane cabins are
pressurized so the flyers do not experience any discomfort. The worrying possibility is that a patient with high blood pressure could
experience a sudden medical problem while flying. However, this is a probability even for people
who are not high blood pressure patients. So, this reason alone is not enough to make you avoid
flying. If your blood pressure levels are not of normal range, then the circumstances
needs to be assessed. It is best to consult a doctor who will give you advice keeping your
condition in mind. Contrary to what people believe, flying itself will not increase your blood
pressure but the process of travelling procedures can lead to stress, which in turn can result in
increasing your blood pressure. People with normal blood pressure also end up stressed when they
face situations like delayed flights, long security lines, irritating passengers during the flight,
miss connecting flights or an expensive in-flight service.
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drink lots of fluids during the flight
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If you do have an uncontrolled blood pressure and you have to fly, then make
sure that you drink lots of fluids during the flight. It will help in keeping you cool! If you get
airsickness, then take the anti-nausea pills suggested by your doctor. This medication will rest
your fears of becoming sick during the flight and help you in relaxing. You may even be able to
take a nap. If this does not happen, then you can always lighten up by watching the in-flight
entertainment programs. Listen to music if it is available. This will help you forget about the
tensions if flying. Blood pressure medication should be taken before the flight. Fill your
prescription prior to the travelling day so that you do not run out of medication during your trip.
Carry them with yourself or place them in your handbag as you might need them in an emergency. Do not eat foods on flight if they are high in sodium. It is better to take some
snacks with you. Make a meal before you fly and eat it during your journey. This is a much
healthier and cheaper option than eating meals offered by the airlines. Hence, if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, this does not mean that you
can not travel in planes. The ideal situation is that you bring your blood pressure with limits and
keep it that way by exercising and eating proper diet. If these do not work, ask the doctor to give
you medicines. If you have to travel, you can do so by taking some simple precautions.
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