When a person has to travel by air while suffering from a head cold, it can be a trying experience. Respiratory congestion, combined with the stress of flying, can make the journey unpleasant. Fortunately, there are several ways a traveler can make the trip more bearable.
Preparing in Advance
Before a person begins traveling, there are several preparatory steps they can take in order to make the flight more comfortable.
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Check the flight regulations. Some airlines have restrictions regarding passengers with medical conditions. Knowing these restrictions in advance can help save potential delays and avoid disappointment.
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Invest in a portable oxygen source. If a person is suffering from a severe cold, they should consider bringing a portable oxygen source with them on their journey. It will allow them to avoid the thin air at cruising altitude and more easily take in enough oxygen.
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Pack decongestants. Taking decongestants before a flight can reduce the symptoms associated with a head cold and make breathing easier.
At the Airport
Before getting on a flight, several steps can be taken to make the experience more comfortable.
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Arrive early. Leaving plenty of extra time can help reduce pre-flight stress and make getting through the airport easier.
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Choose an aisle or window seat. Having an aisle seat or a window seat can make it easier to access the aisle or move around during the journey.
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Consider requesting pre-boarding. If a person is having difficulty walking or breathing due to a head cold, they may benefit from pre-boarding. This will give them extra time to rest before the rest of the passengers board and reduce the stress of getting organized before takeoff.
On the Flight
There are also several steps a person can take to make the flight more comfortable.
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Stay hydrated. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of a head cold, so it is important for the traveler to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
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Bring tissues. A head cold can cause a lot of sneezing, coughing and nose-blowing. Bringing tissues can help reduce the mess and make the flight more comfortable for everyone.
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Use a humidifier. If a person has access to an electric outlet in their seat, they can plug in a small humidifier. The added humidity in the air can help reduce congestion and make breathing easier.
Recovery After the Flight
Finally, there are steps a person should take after landing in order to speed up their recovery.
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Rest. After arriving at the destination, the first step should be to get plenty of rest and give the body time to recover.
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Take medications regularly. Medications like decongestants and expectorants, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce the severity of the symptoms.
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Use a saline spray. A saline spray can help reduce inflammation and reduce irritation caused by a head cold.
Flying with a head cold need not be an unpleasant experience. With the right preparation and precautions, it is possible to make the journey more bearable. Following the steps outlined above can make it easier to get to the destination, while reducing the discomfort associated with a head cold.