Why do I get lightheaded when a plane takes off and is flying? x?

Question

Hi there, I am flying out to spain soon but am dreading the plane journey..last year as the plane took off...i started to feel very very lightheaded and felt I couldnt breather and this made me feel more anxious....is this normal? does anybody else get light headed or do you think this is down to my fear? xx thank you

Answer 1

It could be due to your fear/anxiety over flying, or it could be the cabin pressure.  Try turning your vent on, so you have cool air blowing at you.  It could also be something health related, so maybe you should get that checked out.  Have you had your blood pressure checked lately?  Do you get lightheaded at any other times, other than flying?

Answer 2

I have the same issue and cannot figure out why this is. I fly 10 times a year and have no fears of flying so I know that is not the reason.

But I get lightheaded a lot of the times when I fly and I even fainted once on the plane which was scary... (Hmm....maybe I shouldn't mention that when you're about to fly...)

I thought maybe because I had the one incident before, I get lightheaded now, because I'm anxious about it happening again. So it is very interesting to hear it is not just me who has this happening.

Hope you have a great and enjoyable flight this time!!

Answer 3

It will be a combination of cabin air pressure; the unnaturally sharp angle of flight on takeoff (the body's not used to it); and possibly anxiety.  

If you feel nervous on takeoff, read a magazine or book, chew gum or lollies, and try to relax.  In fact, listening to a relaxation tape/CD on takeoff might be better than the other things I mentioned.

Answer 4

I am the same way and just makes me nervous. I actually had a prescription this time for ativan when I flew two weeks ago. It helped so much that I was happy the whole flight! You take it about 15 minutes before you take off and makes you happy!!!

Answer 5

This sounds entirely as a result of your fear.  You may want to speak to your doctor about an anti-anxiety medication before you take your trip to Spain.   Have fun.

Answer 6

I think it's a combination of that and the fact that air pressure is reduced at high altitudes.