The doctor assessed the risks of pressure drops during the flight for the body

Under normal conditions, the internal pressure in the body is balanced with the external atmospheric pressure, which ensures a stable condition of all organs and tissues. While a sudden climb causes a change in balance, the internal pressure increases. However, the main danger is not the height difference itself, but the increase in intra-abdominal pressure caused by it. Vladimir Neronov, MD, a gastroenterologist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia about this in an interview on May 15.

Earlier, the media reported that the passenger restrained her cough so as not to disturb others. However, this led to a serious injury — the woman suffered a rupture of the lateral muscles, and the liver fell out into the opening. However, Neronov stressed that cases when restraining a cough can lead to this kind of damage are extremely rare, and most people can restrain it without serious consequences.

The Doctor of Medical Sciences explained the mechanism of occurrence of such problems. According to him, the diaphragm and abdominal wall muscles create mechanical pressure, which, combined with the passenger's sitting position, limited space and weakness of the muscular frame, can lead to dystopia of internal organs — their displacement into an uncharacteristic position.

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"The organs shift according to the principle of movement in the direction of least resistance — this is a common physical process," the gastroenterologist added.

The expert also drew attention to other body systems affected by pressure fluctuations: when atmospheric pressure decreases, gas in the body cavities — the abdomen, ears, and lungs — expands, which can cause discomfort or pain.

"People with diseases such as sinusitis or otitis media may experience deterioration due to barotrauma. A significant and rapid decrease in external pressure can be dangerous for people with pre—existing heart and lung diseases," the doctor warned.

He added that a healthy body usually copes well with pressure fluctuations, but if you have chronic diseases, you should consult a doctor before flying.

On April 11, Dmitry Stavtsev, a surgeon and phlebologist at SM Clinic, Ph.D., told Izvestia what the danger of vascular asterisks is. He added that the appearance or enlargement of vascular asterisks on the legs may indicate symptoms of varicose veins. However, only a phlebologist can tell for sure if there is a disease after an examination.