Plane cabin air pressure: Odor issues caused by passenger flatulence - Investigating Canine Conundrum: Unraveling Challenges with Pups
In a recent discussion, gastroenterologist Birgit Terjung and Danish researchers shed light on a common, yet rarely addressed issue that many air travelers may experience: increased flatulence during flights. This phenomenon is attributed to changes in cabin pressure causing gas expansion in the intestines.
The dilemma faced by pilots in such situations is humorously noted by the researchers. They point out the difficult choice between holding in gas, which could potentially impair concentration, and releasing it, which might affect co-pilots due to odor and thus overall flight safety.
To alleviate the discomfort caused by trapped gas, Terjung recommends passengers to walk up and down the aisle more frequently and to massage the stomach from left to right. If these measures do not help, she concurs with the pragmatic advice given by Danish surgeon Hans-Christian Pommergaard: "Let it go, just do it."
Carbonated drinks can contribute to more air in the intestines, while alcohol can hinder the digestive process, according to Terjung. She advises against consuming pizza or a burger at the airport due to potential increased gas production.
The Danish study, published in the "New Zealand Medical Journal," also suggested using activated carbon in airplane seats to absorb odors. However, Airbus S.A.S. states that the cabin air circulation is so advanced that it doesn't require the use of activated carbon in seats.
Activated carbon has been proven to be effective in neutralizing fart odors, as demonstrated by a US study in 2005 that used underwear filled with gases typically found in the intestines. The study found that briefs made from activated carbon fibers absorbed almost all sulfur hydrogen gases from farts.
Interestingly, the study co-authored by Hans-Christian Pommergaard reported that leather seats in first class may repel farts and not absorb anything, making the situation potentially more uncomfortable compared to economy seats.
Many passengers experience olfactory challenges, including flatus (the release of gas from the intestines), on flights, especially in economy class. Terjung emphasizes that the increased pressure in the bowels at high altitudes is normal and is due to looser air in the intestines at lower air pressure.
In conclusion, while increased flatulence during air travel is a common issue, it is important to remember that simple measures such as walking, massaging the stomach, and following a moderate diet can help alleviate discomfort. If these methods do not work, the pragmatic advice remains: "Let it go, just do it."
- To further ensure health-and-wellness during flights, the community policy could consider implementing vocational training programs for pilots on managing in-flight situations related to increased flatulence, focusing on the importance of cabin ventilation and odor control.
- In the pursuit of promoting fitness-and-exercise benefits, employment policies within the airline industry might consider encouraging pilots to engage in routine exercises or yoga during breaks to enhance overall health and well-being, potentially reducing the impacts of in-flight discomfort. Additionally, providing information about nutrition, particularly foods that may contribute to increased gas production, could be part of pre-flight briefings to help passengers maintain a healthy digestive system and minimize such issues.
