WEB DESK: As passengers settle in for long-haul flights, the allure of a drink to unwind may seem irresistible. However, recent research suggests that indulging in alcohol at high altitude can exacerbate the physiological stresses of air travel.
New findings indicate that alcohol compounds the effects of altitude on the body, adding strain to the cardiovascular system, reducing blood oxygen levels, worsening dehydration, and impairing sleep quality. These effects are particularly significant as air travel already imposes challenges such as reduced cabin pressure akin to 8,000 feet above sea level.
“When faced with a situation already stressful for the body, why not avoid alcohol consumption?” questioned study author Eva-Maria Elmenhorst.
Flying mimics the physical strain of ascending a mountain, where decreased air pressure results in reduced oxygen levels, a condition known as hypobaric hypoxia. Although aircraft cabins are pressurized, they still present physiological challenges, prompting the body to adapt through increased heart rate and deeper breathing to compensate for oxygen deficiency.
However, alcohol may disrupt these adaptive responses by inhibiting ventilation, thereby reducing oxygen intake. “Alcohol is a respiratory depressant,” explained high altitude expert Peter Hackett, highlighting its potential to blunt the body’s natural adjustments to altitude.
Research participants who consumed alcohol before sleeping at simulated high altitude exhibited elevated heart rates and decreased blood oxygen levels compared to non-drinkers.
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Sleep quality at high altitude is already compromised, with lower oxygen levels leading to fragmented sleep and increased awakenings. “People spend less time in deep sleep and REM sleep,” noted pulmonary specialist Andrew Luks.
Alcohol’s impact on sleep is profound, as it initially induces drowsiness but later disrupts sleep stages as its sedative effects wear off. Combined with the dehydrating effects of dry cabin air, alcohol’s diuretic properties exacerbate dehydration, further disrupting sleep and compounding the challenges of air travel.
While the effects of alcohol and altitude are generally mild and short-term for healthy individuals, they can pose greater risks for older passengers or those with preexisting health conditions.
“Moderation is key,” advised substance abuse expert Mariann Piano, recommending no more than one alcoholic beverage during a flight. Pairing alcohol with food and hydrating adequately can help mitigate its effects.
For travelers, understanding these interactions between alcohol consumption and altitude is crucial for managing comfort and health during long flights. Balancing relaxation with awareness of physiological impacts can optimize the in-flight experience and minimize potential health risks associated with air travel.
