Originally Posted by
JudyJFLA
I had a period of time that was called orthostatic hypotension, where my blood pressure would tank and I would pass out on flights over 3 hours. I would suddenly get a feeling of being cold and hot at the same time and feeling like I was going to toss my cookies. I learned on a Virgin Atlantic Flight not to get up as I awoke on the floor with some concerned flight attendants staring at me. Another time I threw up while I was passed out and lost all other bodily fluids as well on a United Flight from Chicago to LAX on the way to OZ. They basically tossed me off the plane and into the terminal, where I sent Mom to buy new clothes in the gift shop.
After several doctors told me I must be afraid to fly and gave me xanax (I have skydived before so I am not afraid) I read somewhere a list of things to do and it has worked since. I don't do any caffeine, artificial sweeteners or alcohol for 48 hours preflight. I wear compression stockings to keep the blood out of my legs and also on occasion have taken salt tablets before boarding. It works for me.
JudyJFLA
Originally Posted by
SkeptiCallie
Check your early a.m. blood pressure sometime. You can't at an airport, of course, but at home, and see how low it drops--say to something below 100/60, for example--especially if you've had potassium-rich foods. Just a possibility.
The symptoms you describe are very much like what I felt, except mine were less severe. Although I felt nauseous, I didn't throw up.
I do think it does have to do with my blood pressure which is usually on the low end. I will try the suggestions on making sure it's not too low.
Thank you!