Flying. Some people love it, others hate it. Whether you’re gazing out the window enjoying your sky-high view or gripping your nails into armrest, holding on for dear life, there are some pretty strange things that can happen to your body in an airplane.

Here are nine weird ways that traveling can affect your body:

1. Your Head Spins

Your body can have a hard time adjusting to the movement that it can’t see. This can cause dizziness, nausea or even vomiting while on board. If you have trouble with motion sickness, try to grab a window seat!

2. Your Legs Swell

It’s no secret that leg room is lacking on board many airplanes. You aren’t able to walk around freely and stretch your legs while flying, which can result in blood stagnation in the legs. Lack of motion can lead to swelling or even clotting. If you’re on board for a long flight, be sure to stretch your legs from time to time!

3. You Develop Bad Breath

You can get a bit dehydrated while flying, which causes your body to produce less saliva. Less saliva means bacteria growth and bad breath. Stick to healthy meals while traveling and pop a breath mint or chew on some gum!

4. Your Taste For Food Changes

When scientists studied how airplane noise affects your taste buds, they found that many people have a strange desire for tomato juice while flying. Even if you usually have a sweet tooth, you might end up craving something a bit different.

5. Your Skin Suffers

The dry air on an airplane weakens your skin’s protective properties. This can result in dry, flaky skin or acne. Be sure to use a moisturizing cream while flying to keep your skin hydrated!

6. You Have Trouble Hearing

If you’ve ever been on an airplane, you’ve probably experience the dreaded ear pop. The change in pressure can cause air to press from the inside, causing pain and temporary hearing impairment. Some people find that chewing on gum during takeoff and landing can help alleviate the problem.

7. You Have A Hard Time Going

Sitting for long periods of time can slow down your metabolism and lead to constipation. The change in pressure can also cause gases to alter their circulation pattern, causing gas to build up. Stretch your muscles when you can and stick to a small, healthy meal before flying.

8. You Become Agitated

Even people who don’t have a fear of flying can become more nervous or agitated while flying. While on board an airplane, that little voice in the back of your head might be reminding you that you’re not in control of your safety. This can cause nervousness, anxiousness and fear. Bring a book or some headphones along to help settle your nerves.

9. You Develop A Toothache

Many people who travel report pain in their teeth while flying. This is caused by the change in pressure. Air can get into small spaces and press on your teeth from the inside. If you experience pain while flying, check in with a dentist!

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Science Daily
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