Travelling next to the window could be dangerous for your health: find out why
When travelling by plane, there are several factors to take into account to ensure your comfort and well-being. Among these, the choice of seat is crucial, especially if you opt for a seat close to the window. There is an often overlooked risk associated with this position in the aircraft, which directly affects your health. Find out more about the potential dangers and the precautions to take on your next trip.
A risk of exposure to cosmic radiation
The first danger you may be exposed to when travelling by the window in an aeroplane is increased exposure to cosmic rays. These ionising particles come mainly from the sun and can penetrate the hulls of aircraft, reaching the passengers inside. It is important to know that this radiation is considered harmful to our bodies and can cause long-term health problems, such as premature ageing of the skin and an increased risk of cancer.
The harmful effects of cabin pressurisation
At altitude, atmospheric pressure is lower than on the ground, which is why airlines pressurise their cabins to recreate conditions similar to those we experience on Earth. However, this pressurisation has certain disadvantages and exposes passengers to risks to their healthparticularly those sitting close to the porthole. These risks include :
- Dehydration: the cabin air is very dry, which can lead to rapid dehydration of the body. Passengers seated near the window are particularly vulnerable to this effect.
- Hypoxia: because the cabin is pressurised, there is less oxygen available than on the ground, which can make some people feel suffocated or short of breath.
- Altitude sickness: this phenomenon mainly affects passengers who are sensitive to variations in atmospheric pressure. Sitting close to the window, they may experience headaches, nausea or fatigue.
Precautions to take on your next trip
If you travel frequently or are sensitive to the effects mentioned above, it is recommended that you take certain precautions to minimise these inconveniences and protect your health:
Hydrate regularly
To counteract the dehydration caused by the dry cabin air, it is important to drink water regularly throughout the flight. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, as they can increase dehydration.
Oxygenate as much as possible
To avoid hypoxia, try to move and stretch regularly during the flight, especially on long journeys. If necessary, don't hesitate to ask the cabin crew for extra oxygen.
Choose seats away from the window
If possible, choose a seat away from the window, to reduce your exposure to cosmic radiation and limit the harmful effects of cabin pressurisation.
Consult a doctor before you travel
Finally, if you are prone to altitude sickness or have any particular health problems, it is essential that you consult a doctor before your trip so that you can assess the risks and benefit from personalised advice to protect your health.
In short, travelling close to the window in an aeroplane presents certain health risks, such as exposure to cosmic radiation and the undesirable effects of cabin pressurisation. To minimise these inconveniences, it is crucial to take adequate precautions and to take this information into account when planning your next trip.
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