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26 - Cabin Pressure in Air Travel
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ALTHOUGH aircraft cabins are pressurized, cabin air pressure at cruising altitude is lower than air pressure at sea level. Ata typical cruising altitude of 11 000 meters (37 000 feet), air pressure in the cabin is equivalent to that at an altitude of 1500–2500 meters (5000–8000 feet) above sea level. As a consequence, the available oxygen is reduced and gases within the body expand and it is recommended to:
Drink non-carbonic acid beverages.
Drink extra non-alcoholic caffeine-free beverages before and during your flight to avoid dehydration.
Swallowing and yawning during ascent and descent can help open your eustachian tubes.
Chewing gum or having a hard candy can help relieve pressure by stimulating saliva production and opening your eustachian tubes.
Mint gum can be especially helpful because it causes extra saliva.
Close your mouth, pinch your nose, and blow air through your nose to help more air get into your eustachian tubes. This is known as the Valsalva maneuver
Earplugs can help regulate pressure in your ears.
A good nasal spray can help alleviate pressure or pain
You can take allergy medication or decongestant pills if need be