We all despise long flights. And so naturally we pack our cosiest of neck pillows to make the experience smooth.
And if you do manage some elbow room, your top priority is to try spending most hours sleeping.
Sleeping can be fatal
However, doing this could be very risky. According to a report in the medical journal, sleeping while taking off or landing can lead to serious damage to ears.
Cabin air pressure
When a plane takes off or when it is landing, there is rapid change in air pressure. This change in cabin pressure can put excessive pressure on your eardrums.
Ear damage
While sleeping, your body is not working on maintaining any uneven level of air pressure but is focused on relaxing your muscles. This can lead to ear infection, dizziness, nose bleed and even hearing loss in extreme cases.
Stay wide awake
However, if you are wide awake, your body responds to the air pressure, and maintains equilibrium. Or even if you feel some discomfort in the ear, you can pop the pressure.
Avoid sleeping during take off and landing
So next time you board a plane, pick up a book or watch movies on your tablet to avoid napping.
