While air travel has made the world seem smaller and more accessible, it is not without its risks. One of the hazards that many airline passengers are unaware of is aeroxic syndrome.

Aeroxic syndrome is a condition that can be caused by prolonged exposure to the low oxygen levels commonly found in the cabin of commercial airplanes. In this article, we will explore the causes and symptoms of aeroxic syndrome and what steps you can take to mitigate your risk.

What is Aeroxic Syndrome?

Aeroxic syndrome is a condition that results from prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels in the air. This is caused by the way that airplanes are pressurized. At cruising altitude, the air pressure in the cabin is much lower than at ground level.

To compensate for this, the air is pressurized to a level equivalent to being at an altitude of around 8,000 feet. While this is necessary to maintain a comfortable air pressure for passengers, it also means that the amount of oxygen in the air is significantly lower than at ground level.

What Are the Symptoms of Aeroxic Syndrome?

The symptoms of aeroxic syndrome can vary greatly from person to person. In some cases, people may not experience any symptoms at all. In other cases, the symptoms can be quite severe. Some of the most common symptoms of aeroxic syndrome include:.

Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Confusion and disorientation
Blurred vision
Loss of consciousness (in extreme cases)

Who Is at Risk?

While aeroxic syndrome can happen to anyone who travels by air, there are some people who may be more at risk than others. These include:.

People with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or emphysema
People with heart conditions
Pregnant women
Older adults
Children

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Aeroxic Syndrome?

To reduce your risk of aeroxic syndrome, there are several steps that you can take:.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and during your flight can help keep your body hydrated and reduce the risk of experiencing symptoms.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate your body, which can increase your risk of experiencing symptoms of aeroxic syndrome.
Stay active: Moving around the cabin and doing simple exercises can help keep your blood flowing and reduce the risk of blood clots, which can increase your risk of experiencing symptoms of aeroxic syndrome.
Use supplemental oxygen: If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition, your doctor may prescribe supplemental oxygen to use during your flight.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you are experiencing symptoms of aeroxic syndrome during your flight, it is important to seek help right away. This may include notifying a flight attendant or asking for medical assistance.

If your symptoms are severe, you may need to be taken to a hospital for treatment.

Conclusion

Aeroxic syndrome is a serious condition that can be caused by prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels in the cabin of a commercial airplane.

While anyone can be at risk, there are several steps that you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing symptoms. By staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, staying active, and using supplemental oxygen if necessary, you can help protect yourself from this potentially life-threatening condition.