This is the reason why you should never drink alcohol on a flight and then nap.
While drinking alcohol while flying is always a tempting thought for passengers on long trips, it may not be a good idea.
Many airlines provide alcohol to their customers, particularly those traveling in first and business class. Additionally, something about being on air induces the desire for a brief nap.
German scientists have discovered that alcohol consumption during flight and cabin pressure at cruise altitude can put undue strain on passengers’ hearts.
The researchers discovered that blood oxygen levels rise when people sleep during flights at low air pressure after consuming alcohol drops, and heart rates increase, even in healthy and young individuals.
The study co-author, Eva-Maria Elmenhorst, urged passengers to avoid alcohol while on an airplane. The decreased cabin pressure at cruising altitude, amplified during sleep, increases the risk of aggravating symptoms for those with or without heart problems.
A study involving 48 participants aged 18–40 found that alcohol consumption and sleep in an environment with low air pressure can significantly strain the cardiovascular system.
The participants consumed alcohol before one of the nights, and the combination of alcohol and low oxygen concentrations at high altitudes reduced sleep quality and disturbed their cardiovascular system.
The study concluded that even in young and healthy individuals, the combination of alcohol intake and sleeping under hypobaric conditions could exacerbate symptoms in patients with cardiac or pulmonary diseases.
Never drink alcohol on an airplane
The oxygen saturation dropped to low levels during sleep, and the researchers recommend avoiding alcohol consumption even when someone is healthy.
