This programme is all about how flying affects your body. There are all kinds of changes that your body has to cope with when you are in a plane, which explains why flying can be so tiring. With the help of medical aviation experts, we find out what goes on inside us when we take to the skies.

As you listen, try to answer these questions:
1: Why does your pulse rate go up when the plane is climbing into the sky?
2: What is the risk of developing thrombosis when flying, according to Michael?
3: Why does the body find it difficult to cope when you change time zone?

Listen
	Flying

You can download the script and audio for this programme from the 'Extras' section below.

Vocabulary

your pulse rate
the speed at which your heart beats
Example: Your pulse rate goes up when the plane takes off.

ventilation
the movement of air
Example: The ventilation in this room is terrible - I can hardly breathe!

to be dehydrated
to not have enough water in your body for it to function well
Example: You should drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.

a blood clot
a thick mass that forms when blood isn't flowing properly

thrombosis
the development of a blood clot

the aisle
the part of the plane where you can walk up and down

to stagnate
to stop moving or to stop functioning properly
Example:The water in the pond started to dry up and stagnate.

jet lag
the tiredness you experience after you've flown a long distance, especially because of the time difference between the place you left and the place you arrived at
Example: It took me several days to get over the jet lag.

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Extras
Programme script (pdf - 23 k)
Download this programme (mp3 - 2 mb)
Hear the full flying documentary