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It's dry up there - keep yourself well hydrated. Drink lots of water and
juices, but avoid diuretics such as coffee, tea and alcohol.
Avoid flying with a cold or congestion as it may cause ear pain. If your ears
feel like they are getting plugged you can usually clear them by yawning,
chewing gum or swallowing hard. This will allow the air pressure to equalize by
opening up the Eustachian tube that connects your middle ear with your nasal
passages.
Carry all medications in your carry-on baggage along with details of your
condition and treatment. This will aid the crew or any doctors who may need to
treat you during your trip. Carry a copy of your prescription with you,
especially for international travel.
Be aware of any potential side effects of the drugs you may currently be
taking when combined with the flight environment (i.e. less oxygen). If unsure,
check with your doctor before your flight.
When on a long flight (and if possible on any flight), try to move your
ankles, toes and legs regularly. Exercising and stretching increases blood
circulation and minimizes the risk of DVT. Exercises should be done every hour
for a few minutes.
Carry-on baggage should be kept to a minimum in order to leave the area under
your seat empty to enable stretching. However, for shorter passengers whose feet
do not reach the floor, it is recommended that feet are elevated, using luggage
if necessary, in order to prevent the seat edge from compressing the back of the
thighs.
Avoid taking sedatives before and during a flight in order to refrain from
sleeping too soundly and to be able to move freely.
For more information on deep vein thrombosis, visit the following site:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/CivilAviation/commerce/CabinSafety/DVT.htm
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