Recent studies reveal that drinking alcohol while flying poses hidden risks, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions. The study underscores the potential dangers associated with consuming alcohol in flight, highlighting the effects of dry cabin air, lower oxygen levels due to cabin pressure, and the immobility of cramped seating. Experts advise caution, especially for passengers with cardiorespiratory conditions, while healthy young individuals face fewer risks.
Dr. Eva-Maria Elmenhorst explains that dry cabin air can lead to dehydration, exacerbating the body's response to alcohol. This dehydration, combined with the immobilization in cramped seats, can potentially trigger blood clots in the legs. Dr. Prashant Vaishnava advises those with underlying cardiorespiratory conditions to avoid alcohol while flying, warning that it can worsen blood clots.
“Steer away from alcohol when flying,” – Dr. Prashant Vaishnava
Despite the potential risks, Dr. Vaishnava reassures that healthy young people are unlikely to face serious consequences from moderate alcohol consumption during flights. However, Mariann Piano, a professor of nursing, emphasizes the importance of understanding these risks due to the sheer number of people who fly internationally.
“This study makes me more confident in that advice.” – Dr. Deepak Bhatt
The study involved 48 healthy adults aged 18 to 40, divided into two groups. It examined the impact of alcohol consumption at simulated altitudes. Participants who consumed alcohol before sleep in an altitude chamber experienced a significant drop in blood oxygen saturation to 85%, coupled with an increase in heart rates to nearly 88 beats per minute.
“What I found concerning was the drop in oxygen saturation,” – Mariann Piano
“It was approaching a very abnormal level that could compromise the delivery of oxygen to the tissues of the body.” – Mariann Piano
The decrease in air pressure at high altitudes reduces oxygen intake per breath. Cabin pressure is typically set between 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level during flights. According to the National Institutes of Health, this reduction significantly impacts oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Experts caution that oxygen saturation below 90% is worrisome, as normal levels range from 95% to 100%.
“They have lower baseline oxygen saturation levels,” – Mariann Piano
Dr. Elmenhorst notes that alcohol's effect on people at low air pressure was strikingly strong, raising concerns among medical professionals.
“For years I’ve been telling patients not to drink on flights,” – Dr. Deepak Bhatt
“This study makes me more confident in that advice.” – Dr. Deepak Bhatt
Particularly concerning are individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), who already have reduced baseline oxygen levels. Mariann Piano highlights the increased risk for these individuals when consuming alcohol during flights.
“They should be conservative and limit themselves to probably no more than one drink,” – Dr. Prashant Vaishnava
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