One of the most grueling parts of travel is the long-haul flight, where prolonged changes in air pressure and constricted movement can lead to discomfort.

According to Korean Air’s medical team, there are easy ways to alleviate common symptoms associated with long flights.

When flights take off or land, the change in air pressure can cause discomfort in the ears that can be eased by swallowing. Young children should be provided with a pacifier or a drink with a straw to help them swallow.

Korean Air’s doctors also recommend passengers to eat light meals and avoid carbonated or alcoholic drinks to prevent bloating. Air sickness can be alleviated by minimizing head movements and resting with the eyes closed.

To ease pressure on the spine, doctors recommend that passengers sit all the way back in the seat rather than on the edge, with their backs straight rather than reclined.

In case of medical emergencies, Korean Air flights are equipped with medical bags, first aid kits, and emergency medical kits as well as a communications system connecting flights with doctors on the ground who can offer real-time diagnoses and care advice.

By Won Ho-jung (hjwon@heraldcorp.com)