Doctors Explain How Flying Affects the Human Body
From altered taste buds and dry skin to 'mile-high bloating,' experts detail the physiological effects of air travel.
Flying at high altitudes can trigger a range of physiological responses in the human body, influenced by cabin pressure and low humidity, according to medical experts. These effects, while often temporary, can alter sensory experiences and cause physical discomfort.
Professor Adam Taylor, an expert in clinical anatomy at Lancaster University, noted that body systems containing air, such as the digestive and respiratory systems, are most impacted by the reduced cabin pressure. This decrease in pressure also leads to lower oxygen levels, which can be more significant for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Sensory Changes
One commonly reported effect is a change in taste perception. Dr. Roger Henderson, an NHS GP, explained that the dry cabin air reduces moisture in the nose and mouth, impairing the function of taste buds and the sense of smell, which are vital for flavor. This reduction can make food taste bland, with sweet and salty flavors being particularly affected. Savory or umami flavors, however, are often less impacted, which may explain why certain items like tomato juice can seem more appealing in the air.