Ishita Roy

Feeling Pins And Needles In Your Body? Here's Why

Tingling Feeling In Hands

If you have ever slept on your arm and your leg, you might feel like a <span>pins and needles</span> sensation. Some people describe it as a fuzzy numbness, while for others it could be a prickling sensation. Medically, this term is known as <span>paresthesia</span>, which literally translates to "abnormal feeling". In many ways, it actually is the way we feel due to the changes in nerve function.

Before we get into that, let's identify how can you take a note of it:

<ul><li>where you feel the sensation</li><li>how long does the sensation last</li><li>when it first started</li><li>whether or not it is associated with certain positions or postures</li></ul>

If you notice that sensation is associated with specific position like sitting or crossing your legs, then it could be related to pressure. When you put pressure on certain areas of your body, it can lead to compression of both, a nerve and its blood supply. Therefore, it temporarily interferes with nerve's function and you experience paresthesia.

There are certain medicines for conditions like HIV and cancer can affect nerve function and could lead to paresthesia. Certain supplements too can contribute to paresthesia. A bodybuilding supplement called beta-alanine is also known to cause pins and needles sensation.

As per a 2012 study titled<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3491570/" data-type="tilCustomLink" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank"> Mechanisms of Itch Evoked by β-Alanine</a> showed that beta-alanine makes your nerves more sensitive, resulting in itching and tingling sensations. There are long-term supplementation of vitamin B6 can also cause you to feel the sensation, especially if you feel numbness in hands and feet.

There are other causes which are also related to such feeling:

<ul><li>stroke or transient ischemic attack</li><li>head or limb trauma</li><li>vitamin B12 deficiency</li><li>multiple sclerosis</li><li>panic attack</li><li>diabetes</li><li>alcohol abuse</li><li>carpal-, cubital-, or tarsal tunnel syndrome</li><li>sciatica</li><li>thoracic outlet syndrome</li><li>sjogren’s syndrome</li><li>systemic sclerosis</li><li>vasculitis</li><li>rheumatoid arthritis</li><li>lupus</li><li>encephalitis</li><li>Lyme disease</li><li>HIV</li><li>heavy metal toxicity</li><li>tumor</li></ul>

This feeling is usually not dangerous, however, if there are underlying cause, it could be worrisome.

<h4>Concerning symptoms may include:</h4>

<ul><li>fever</li><li>fatigue</li><li>weakness</li><li>unintended weight loss</li><li>night sweats</li><li>body aches</li><li>changes in vision, hearing, or speech</li><li>changes in appetite or thirst</li><li>dizziness</li><li>light-headedness</li><li>anxiety</li><li>pain from a recent injury to the area</li><li>recent or current illness</li></ul>

The pins and needles feels like burning, pricking, itching, and crawling. The most common way people describe this as is "fallen asleep" of a certain body part. It starts as a tingling numbness and becomes a bit dull, and fuzzy feeling.

<h4>What can be done when such happens all over your body?</h4>

Usually, this sensation is rare in all over your body and it only affects a couple of your body parts. For instance, in vitamin B6-related paresthesia, you feel the sensation in your hands and feel but not in other body parts.

However, if you do feel so, you can first try to reposition yourself, and do some stretches which will help you improve your blood circulation. If changing positions does not work, go see your healthcare professional and consult with them for any medication.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

tingling feeling

pins and needles

paresthesia

paresthesia feeling

needles in body

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If you have ever slept on your arm and your leg, you might feel like a pins and needles sensation. Some people describe it as a fuzzy numbness, while for others it could be a prickling sensation. Medically, this term is known as paresthesia, which literally translates to "abnormal feeling". In many ways, it actually is the way we feel due to the changes in nerve function.So, what causes it?Before we get into that, let's identify how can you take a note of it:where you feel the sensationhow long does the sensation lastwhen it first startedwhether or not it is associated with certain positions or posturesPressureIf you notice that sensation is associated with specific position like sitting or crossing your legs, then it could be related to pressure. When you put pressure on certain areas of your body, it can lead to compression of both, a nerve and its blood supply. Therefore, it temporarily interferes with nerve's function and you experience paresthesia.MedicinesThere are certain medicines for conditions like HIV and cancer can affect nerve function and could lead to paresthesia. Certain supplements too can contribute to paresthesia. A bodybuilding supplement called beta-alanine is also known to cause pins and needles sensation.As per a 2012 study titled Mechanisms of Itch Evoked by β-Alanine showed that beta-alanine makes your nerves more sensitive, resulting in itching and tingling sensations. There are long-term supplementation of vitamin B6 can also cause you to feel the sensation, especially if you feel numbness in hands and feet.Other causesThere are other causes which are also related to such feeling:stroke or transient ischemic attackhead or limb traumavitamin B12 deficiencymultiple sclerosispanic attackdiabetesalcohol abusecarpal-, cubital-, or tarsal tunnel syndromesciaticathoracic outlet syndromesjogren’s syndromesystemic sclerosisvasculitisrheumatoid arthritislupusencephalitisLyme diseaseHIVheavy metal toxicitytumorIs it dangerous?This feeling is usually not dangerous, however, if there are underlying cause, it could be worrisome.Concerning symptoms may include:feverfatigueweaknessunintended weight lossnight sweatsbody acheschanges in vision, hearing, or speechchanges in appetite or thirstdizzinesslight-headednessanxietypain from a recent injury to the arearecent or current illnessWhat is the feeling like?The pins and needles feels like burning, pricking, itching, and crawling. The most common way people describe this as is "fallen asleep" of a certain body part. It starts as a tingling numbness and becomes a bit dull, and fuzzy feeling.What can be done when such happens all over your body?Usually, this sensation is rare in all over your body and it only affects a couple of your body parts. For instance, in vitamin B6-related paresthesia, you feel the sensation in your hands and feel but not in other body parts.However, if you do feel so, you can first try to reposition yourself, and do some stretches which will help you improve your blood circulation. If changing positions does not work, go see your healthcare professional and consult with them for any medication.

feeling pins and needles in your body? here's why

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Deaths due to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are climbing at an alarming rate across the United States, with certain groups being disproportionately affected. A new study published on June 11 in JAMA Network Open found that ALD-related deaths rose nearly 9% each year between 2018 and 2022—more than double the rate of increase seen from 2006 to 2018.

Experts believe this sharp uptick is partly linked to increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributing factors include chronic conditions like obesity and hypertension, which can worsen liver health. “It puts numbers to what we’re seeing in the hospital, in the clinic,” said Dr. Brian Lee, a liver specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, in a report to STAT News.

<h4>Worsening Trends Among Women and Indigenous Populations</h4>

While men still experience more deaths from ALD—17 per 100,000 in 2022—women’s death rates have risen more sharply. In 2022, 8 out of every 100,000 women died from alcohol-related liver disease, a significant jump from 3 per 100,000 at the beginning of the study period. Women’s mortality rate grew at approximately 4.3% per year—almost twice the rate seen in men.

The study also revealed a devastating impact on Indigenous communities. American Indian and Alaska Native adults had the highest cirrhosis death rate in 2022, at 33 per 100,000 people. Additionally, alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths in these groups more than doubled between 2010 and 2022.

Dr. Nasim Maleki, a psychiatry professor at Harvard Medical School, noted that although the pandemic has eased, its long-term effects—particularly in marginalized communities—are still unfolding. “The pandemic itself came under control, but the disparities that came with it continued and lingered,” she said.

<h4>Young Adults at Higher Risk Than Before</h4>

A particularly troubling trend is the increase in alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths among people aged 25 to 44. This condition can develop quickly and is marked by symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and liver pain—even in individuals who haven't been heavy drinkers for long.

Liver experts warn that the worst effects of pandemic-related drinking might still be ahead. “Alcohol-related cirrhosis takes time to develop. So we may not see the true extent of the consequences until five, probably 10, years from now, which is very concerning,” said Dr. Robert Wong of Stanford University.

One reason for the sharper rise among women lies in biology. Cisgender women metabolize alcohol differently than cisgender men, which means their organs may suffer more damage from lower levels of alcohol consumption over time. That’s why current federal guidelines recommend no more than one alcoholic drink per day for women, compared to two for men.

“You’d be surprised by how shocked people are when they hear that drinking more than two drinks per day is considered heavy drinking by federal definitions,” Dr. Lee added.

<h4>Public Health Response and the Way Forward</h4>

In 2021, over 12,000 deaths from “unspecified liver cirrhosis” were linked to excessive drinking, although that may not always be evident from death certificates. Marissa Esser, who previously led the alcohol program at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, highlighted this hidden toll before the program was disbanded earlier this year.

The American Medical Association is now calling for more public education on alcohol’s risks, including its link to breast cancer. It is also urging clearer labeling on alcoholic beverages to help consumers make informed choices.

Though some data suggests a slight drop in alcohol use since its peak in 2020, it remains uncertain whether this will reduce deaths in the coming years. For now, ALD continues to be the leading reason for liver transplants in the U.S., and alcohol-associated hepatitis is the fastest-growing cause.

alcohol linked deaths

women's health

health news

alcohol deaths rise in women

alcohol deaths rise in young adults

Deaths due to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are climbing at an alarming rate across the United States, with certain groups being disproportionately affected. A new study published on June 11 in JAMA Network Open found that ALD-related deaths rose nearly 9% each year between 2018 and 2022—more than double the rate of increase seen from 2006 to 2018.Experts believe this sharp uptick is partly linked to increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributing factors include chronic conditions like obesity and hypertension, which can worsen liver health. “It puts numbers to what we’re seeing in the hospital, in the clinic,” said Dr. Brian Lee, a liver specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, in a report to STAT News.Worsening Trends Among Women and Indigenous PopulationsWhile men still experience more deaths from ALD—17 per 100,000 in 2022—women’s death rates have risen more sharply. In 2022, 8 out of every 100,000 women died from alcohol-related liver disease, a significant jump from 3 per 100,000 at the beginning of the study period. Women’s mortality rate grew at approximately 4.3% per year—almost twice the rate seen in men.The study also revealed a devastating impact on Indigenous communities. American Indian and Alaska Native adults had the highest cirrhosis death rate in 2022, at 33 per 100,000 people. Additionally, alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths in these groups more than doubled between 2010 and 2022.Dr. Nasim Maleki, a psychiatry professor at Harvard Medical School, noted that although the pandemic has eased, its long-term effects—particularly in marginalized communities—are still unfolding. “The pandemic itself came under control, but the disparities that came with it continued and lingered,” she said.Young Adults at Higher Risk Than BeforeA particularly troubling trend is the increase in alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths among people aged 25 to 44. This condition can develop quickly and is marked by symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and liver pain—even in individuals who haven't been heavy drinkers for long.Liver experts warn that the worst effects of pandemic-related drinking might still be ahead. “Alcohol-related cirrhosis takes time to develop. So we may not see the true extent of the consequences until five, probably 10, years from now, which is very concerning,” said Dr. Robert Wong of Stanford University.Why Women Face Unique RisksOne reason for the sharper rise among women lies in biology. Cisgender women metabolize alcohol differently than cisgender men, which means their organs may suffer more damage from lower levels of alcohol consumption over time. That’s why current federal guidelines recommend no more than one alcoholic drink per day for women, compared to two for men.“You’d be surprised by how shocked people are when they hear that drinking more than two drinks per day is considered heavy drinking by federal definitions,” Dr. Lee added.Public Health Response and the Way ForwardIn 2021, over 12,000 deaths from “unspecified liver cirrhosis” were linked to excessive drinking, although that may not always be evident from death certificates. Marissa Esser, who previously led the alcohol program at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, highlighted this hidden toll before the program was disbanded earlier this year.The American Medical Association is now calling for more public education on alcohol’s risks, including its link to breast cancer. It is also urging clearer labeling on alcoholic beverages to help consumers make informed choices.Though some data suggests a slight drop in alcohol use since its peak in 2020, it remains uncertain whether this will reduce deaths in the coming years. For now, ALD continues to be the leading reason for liver transplants in the U.S., and alcohol-associated hepatitis is the fastest-growing cause.

alcohol-linked liver disease deaths on rise among women and young adults

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Is It Just A Summer Cold Or The NB.1.8.1 Covid Variant? How To Tell When The Symptoms Are Nearly Identical

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As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.

Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.

Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.

Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.

To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.

<h2>Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?</h2>

Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:

<ul><li>Sore throat</li><li>Nasal congestion or runny nose</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Muscle aches</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li></ul>

However some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:

<ul><li>Fever or chills</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Loss of taste or smell, new</li><li>Gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea</li></ul>

There is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.

Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.

Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.

If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:

<ul><li>Stay home and rest</li><li>Wear a mask if around others</li><li>Get a COVID-19 test</li><li>Talk to your healthcare provider</li></ul>

Timely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.

<h2>Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?</h2>

While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.

Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."

<h2>How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?</h2>

There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:

<ul><li>Drink plenty of water and moderate your booze</li><li>Consume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins</li><li>Get good rest and reduce stress levels</li><li>Clean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipment</li><li>Supplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune function</li><li>Wash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areas</li></ul>

Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.

If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

nb.1.8.1 covid variant

summer cold vs covid

new covid strain symptoms

summer virus outbreak

covid testing summer

is it covid or cold

nb.1.8.1 symptoms

As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:Sore throatNasal congestion or runny noseFatigueMuscle achesNausea or vomitingHowever some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:Fever or chillsShortness of breathLoss of taste or smell, newGastrointestinal illness such as diarrheaThere is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.What Exactly Is a Summer Cold?Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:Stay home and restWear a mask if around othersGet a COVID-19 testTalk to your healthcare providerTimely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:Drink plenty of water and moderate your boozeConsume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteinsGet good rest and reduce stress levelsClean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipmentSupplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune functionWash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areasWhat If You Do Get Sick?Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

is it just a summer cold or the nb.1.8.1 covid variant? how to tell when the symptoms are nearly identical

Air India Crash May Have Triggered Flight Anxiety In Millions, Expert Shares How To Overcome Aerophobia

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The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from <span>aerophobia</span>, the technical name for the <span>fear of flying</span>, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.

<span>Mental health</span> experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with <span>flight anxiety</span> that are evidence-based and even get over it.

Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude.

"Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." 

Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:

Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.

Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.

Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.

Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.

This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."

<h2>How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?</h2>

If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:

<ul><li>Panic attacks during or prior to flying</li><li>Flight avoidance media</li><li>Overresearching crash records or airline safety</li><li>Repetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)</li><li>Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tension</li></ul>

<h2>Expert-Backed Strategies to Overcome Aerophobia</h2>

While aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.

Challenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.

Practice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.

Rehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.

Crossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.

Travel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.

Begin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.

<h4>7. Professional Assistance is Effective</h4>

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments.

"Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."

<h2>Coping Tools to Practice on the Ground</h2>

Grounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.

Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.

Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.

<h2>Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?</h2>

Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.

<h2>How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?</h2>

There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.

Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

mental health

aerophobia

flight anxiety

fear of flying

air india crash 2025

coping with flight anxiety

The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from aerophobia, the technical name for the fear of flying, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.Mental health experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with flight anxiety that are evidence-based and even get over it.What is Aerophobia?Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude."Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:Panic attacks during or prior to flyingFlight avoidance mediaOverresearching crash records or airline safetyRepetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tensionExpert-Backed Strategies to Overcome AerophobiaWhile aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.1. Cognitive RestructuringChallenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.2. Relaxation TechniquesPractice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.3. Cope Ahead VisualizationRehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.4. Use Distraction ToolsCrossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.5. Support SystemTravel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.6. Gradual Exposure TherapyBegin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.7. Professional Assistance is EffectiveCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments."Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."Coping Tools to Practice on the GroundGrounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

air india crash may have triggered flight anxiety in millions, expert shares how to overcome aerophobia

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