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Sleep-Related Disorders
Question #20098
95 days ago
216

Anxiety,stress,fear during flight - #20098

Hina

Hello Doctor, I have extreme anxiety about flying and I cannot sleep at all because of this fear. My flight is soon (prior 10 days)and without a sleeping aid, I don’t think I can manage the flight. I was considering melatonin 3 mg or another mild sleep aid, and I am very anxious about timing and effectiveness. Could you please advise what is safe for me and how to take it so I can sleep and manage my flight safely? I am 21 years old, weigh 78. Thank you.

Age: 21
Chronic illnesses: No
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
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Doctors' responses

Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
94 days ago
5

Melatonin 3 mg is safe and appropriate for you

Start it now, nightly, not just on flight day

It helps sleep and reduces anxiety

Combine with breathing + routine for best effect

You do not need strong sedatives to fly safely

Better visit a physician nearest to you for physical evaluation.

1854 answered questions
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Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
94 days ago
5

Hello Hina, I understand your worry. My advise would be to not take advise online regarding this issue. Medicines which help in sleep initiation and maintenance must be prescribed after a physical consultation with a certified Physician or a Psychiatrist.

Taking such a medicine with online advise might do more harm than good. So kindly visit such a doctor for your betterment.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine

640 answered questions
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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
94 days ago
5

Hello Hina It’s understandable to feel anxious about flying, especially with a flight coming up soon. Melatonin can be a helpful option for sleep, as it’s a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Here’s what you should know: - Dosage: A common dose for melatonin is 1-3 mg taken about 30-60 minutes before you plan to sleep. Since you mentioned 3 mg, that’s a typical starting dose. - Timing: Take it about an hour before you want to sleep. This can help you feel drowsy when it’s time to rest. - Effectiveness: Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use, but its effectiveness can vary from person to person. It may help you fall asleep but might not keep you asleep for the entire night.

Additional tips for managing anxiety: - Relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching before your flight to help calm your nerves. - Distraction: Bring a book, music, or a movie to keep your mind occupied during the flight.

If you’re looking for alternatives to melatonin for sleep, here are a couple of options you might consider: 1. Valerian Root: This herbal supplement is often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It can be taken in capsule or tea form about 30 minutes before bedtime. 2. Chamomile Tea: Drinking chamomile tea before bed can help calm your mind and prepare you for sleep. It’s a gentle option with a soothing effect. 3. L-theanine: This amino acid, found in green tea, can promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It’s available in supplement form and can be taken before bed. 4. Magnesium: This mineral can help relax muscles and promote sleep. You can take magnesium supplements or consume magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. 5. Lavender: The scent of lavender is known for its calming properties. You can use lavender essential oil in a diffuser or apply it to your pillow.

Make sure to stay hydrated and avoid caffeine close to your flight. If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!

Thank you

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
95 days ago
5

Hello dear See it is just physiological due to increasing incidents of emergency crashes or height phobia. I suggest you to please engage your self in activities during flight time Read novels Start meditation Do physical exercise for good physical health Engage your self in social media During flight Avoid overthinking Donot watch on the window Read magazines Hopefully you will occur Regards

2297 answered questions
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Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
94 days ago
5

Hello,

Flight anxiety is very common and manageable.

Melatonin 1–3 mg is generally safe; take 30–60 minutes before sleep. Try it at home first to see how your body responds.

Non-medicine strategies to practice daily: slow breathing (4-7-8), grounding exercises, reassuring safety facts, seat choice, distraction (music/movies) Don’t google much about the same

I trust this helps Feel free to talk Thank you

1412 answered questions
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Sleeping aid can help with anxiety during flights, but it’s important to approach this carefully. Melatonin, a natural sleep hormone, is often used to help with sleep disorders and jet lag. At 3 mg, it’s generally considered safe for short-term use. You might find it helpful to take melatonin about 30 to 60 minutes before you wish to sleep. However, remember it doesn’t work for everyone, and its effectiveness can vary. Being a more natural remedy, it tends to have fewer side effects than prescription hypnotics. If you find melatonin insufficient, sometimes over-the-counter sleep aids like diphenhydramine are used for short flights. However, diphenhydramine might cause grogginess and is not recommended for everyone, especially if you need to stay alert after the flight quickly. Always ensure you’re not allergic to any medication or combine it with alcohol or other sedatives. Besides sleep aids, exploring cognitive behavioral techniques to manage your anxiety might prove invaluable. Start practicing diaphragmatic breathing or progressive relaxation in the days leading to your flight. Visualizing a successful flight experience can also help ease anxiety. Exercise before you start your journey, maintaining a healthy diet, and limiting caffeine could all influence restfulness and anxiety levels. If the anxiety feels uncontrollable or you’re considering stronger prescriptions, consulting with your doctor in advance is crucial. Discuss potential options such as short-term benzodiazepine use specifically prescribed for anxiety relief. Benzodiazepines are effective but carry risks of dependency and side effects. Prioritizing your safety, ensure any intervention aligns with your overall health profile and daily routine. Pay attention to any health changes and avoid altering medications or dosages without proper guidance.

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