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The effects of flying: processes, consequences and prevention
Laura Shepherd1, Sharon L Edwards
1Barnet Accident and Emergency, Barnet General Hospital, Barnet, Hertfordshire.
British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|February 18, 2004
Summary
Air travel poses health risks, particularly to the respiratory and circulatory systems. Understanding these effects, like deep vein thrombosis, can help nurses provide crucial advice to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Media reports highlight air travel risks, but scientific literature and traveler recommendations are inconsistent.
- Existing research on the physiological effects of flying is contradictory, necessitating a clearer understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on the health consequences of air travel.
- To examine the impact of flying on the respiratory and circulatory systems.
- To equip nurses with knowledge on long-distance flight effects and potential complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of theoretical and empirical literature on air travel's physiological effects.
- Analysis of studies investigating the impact on respiratory and circulatory systems.
- Synthesis of information on adverse events like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Main Results:
- Long-distance flying can significantly affect the respiratory and circulatory systems.
- Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are potential adverse complications of air travel.
- Current recommendations for travelers are often contradictory.
Conclusions:
- Nurses require comprehensive insights into the physiological effects of air travel.
- Effective prophylactic advice can mitigate risks such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
- Promoting passenger precautions can reduce the incidence of flight-related health issues.