Why Do I Feel Lightheaded on a Plane Journey?

Why Do I Feel Lightheaded on a Plane Journey?

If you have ever been on a plane and suddenly felt a bit lightheaded, you are not alone. Many people experience this during flights, and it can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you are not sure what is causing it.

In this guide, we discuss some of the reasons why you may be feeling lightheaded on your flight and what you can do about it.

Image: A photo of a man sitting in an aeroplane seat by the window, gazing outside.

Changes in Cabin Pressure

One of the main reasons you might feel lightheaded on a plane is due to changes in cabin pressure. When a plane climbs to a high altitude, the air outside becomes thinner. The cabin is pressurised to keep it comfortable, but it is still not exactly like the air you breathe on the ground.

With less oxygen in the air at higher altitudes, your body might have a harder time getting the oxygen it needs, which can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. This especially happens more often if you are not used to flying or if you are already feeling a bit under the weather before your trip.

Dehydration

The air inside the cabin is often much drier than what we are used to on the ground. When you are in a dry environment for several hours, your body can become dehydrated, especially if you are not drinking enough water during the flight.

Dehydration can cause a whole bunch of symptoms, including feeling lightheaded, tired, or just off. If you have had alcohol, coffee, or sugary drinks before or during the flight, that can also make dehydration worse because these drinks can lead to fluid loss.

Motion Sickness

If you are prone to motion sickness, flying can sometimes trigger it. The feeling of turbulence, or even the sensation of taking off and landing, can mess with your inner ear. The inner ear helps control your balance, and when it gets confused by the movement of the plane, it can make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or even nauseous.

Anxiety or Stress

Flying can be stressful for a lot of people. Whether it is fear of flying, crowded spaces, or just the hustle and bustle of getting through the airport, anxiety can creep up during a flight, and it can cause physical symptoms, including feeling lightheaded or faint.

Sometimes, just the thought of being on a plane for several hours or the fear of turbulence can increase your stress levels, making you feel dizzy or uneasy. It is a physical response to stress, even if you don’t feel particularly anxious at the moment.

How to Prevent Feeling Lightheaded on a Plane

Here are a few simple things you can do to try and manage or prevent it;

Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water before and during your flight, and avoid too much alcohol, coffee, or sugary drinks, as they can dehydrate you.

Move around - Get up and stretch your legs when you can. Even walking to the bathroom a couple of times during a long flight can help keep your blood circulating.

Eat light - Have a snack or small meal before your flight, and bring something light to munch on during the journey. This can help keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Breathe deeply - If you feel like you are not getting enough air, take slow, deep breaths to help calm your body and get more oxygen.

Relax - If anxiety is making you feel lightheaded, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to calm your nerves.

Wear loose clothing - Tight clothes can restrict blood flow, so it is best to wear something comfortable and loose-fitting, especially on long flight.

Conclusion

Feeling lightheaded on a plane journey is pretty common and can happen for a variety of reasons, like changes in cabin pressure, dehydration, sitting for too long, or anxiety. The good news is that it is usually nothing serious and can often be managed by drinking plenty of water, eating properly, and taking a few simple steps to stay comfortable.

If it happens to you, just take it easy, breathe deeply, and know that you are not alone. It is a normal part of flying for many people.