A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury from a jolt or blow to the head or body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This temporarily affects normal brain function. Though termed “mild,” concussions can lead to various symptoms and require careful management. Understanding air travel’s impact on a healing brain is crucial for recovery.
How Flying Affects a Healing Brain
Air travel introduces several physiological challenges that can affect a brain recovering from a concussion. Aircraft cabins are pressurized to 5,000 to 8,000 feet, which can influence intracranial pressure, potentially exacerbating headaches and discomfort for a healing brain. Additionally, the reduced oxygen levels, known as hypoxia, at these simulated altitudes can be problematic. Even healthy individuals experience a slight decrease in oxygen saturation during flight, and for someone with a concussion, this reduced oxygen supply may hinder the brain’s recovery process. The overall stress and fatigue of air travel, including navigating busy airports and dealing with potential delays, can add strain to a healing brain.
Symptoms During Air Travel
The airplane and airport environment can intensify existing concussion symptoms. Headaches can worsen due to cabin pressure changes and sensory overload from noise and bright lights. Dizziness and nausea may also increase, especially if the vestibular system, which controls balance, is impaired.
Fatigue can become more profound during air travel due to the brain’s increased effort to cope. Sensitivity to light and sound can make bright lights and constant announcements distressing. Cognitive difficulties, such as trouble concentrating or “brain fog,” and irritability might also be heightened by demanding travel conditions.
When to Consider Flying
Deciding when to fly after a concussion requires careful consideration and medical consultation. There is no universal “safe” timeline for air travel, as recovery is individual and depends on various factors. Doctors assess the severity of the concussion, the resolution of symptoms, the individual’s overall health, and any pre-existing conditions.
It is recommended to wait until symptoms have significantly improved or fully resolved before considering air travel. Flying too soon, especially within the first few days, can risk exacerbating symptoms or prolonging recovery. While some studies suggest flying shortly after a concussion may not worsen recovery or symptoms in certain populations like athletes, medical clearance remains a primary recommendation for most.
Essential Travel Preparations
If medical clearance is obtained or travel is unavoidable, several preparations can help make the journey manageable. Staying well-hydrated by drinking water before and during the flight is advisable. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can contribute to dehydration and worsen symptoms.
Planning for adequate rest before and after the flight can aid in managing fatigue. Managing sensory input is important; wearing sunglasses or an eye mask can help with light sensitivity, while earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce auditory overstimulation. Bringing necessary medications and informing flight attendants of your condition, if comfortable, can provide additional support.