A recent study at a University in Sweden warned of the ‘dark side of hypermobility’, which means frequent flyers are at risk from serious physiological, psychological, emotional and social damage.

Whilst this study is no revelation to those associated with frequent travel, it is rather worrying that not much seems to have changed since the last study.

The effects of jetlag can be felt up to six days after flying. This condition is caused as the brain struggles to adjust to a new time zone, and it affects mood, judgement and the ability to concentrate. It can also raise the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Travellers are also at risk of developing deep-vein thrombosis and subtle discomforts such as dry eyes and dehydrated skin. Business travellers have fewer opportunities for physical exercise and worse eating habits than when at home, said the study.

It doesn’t help that business travellers are increasingly forced to travel in economy class, exacerbating physical and mental fatigue.

The stress of travel not only impacts travellers physiologically, but also psychologically and emotionally.

The researchers added that loneliness and isolation are also common symptoms of frequent travel. For those leaving behind a family, isolation is felt more keenly, along with acute feelings of guilt at leaving loved ones at home.

The study concluded: “The costs of hypermobility can be substantial, with significant consequences for those travelling, their families and their communities. Further research should quantify the public health costs associated with [frequent travel].”

Corporates need to create travel policies that take into account the impact of travel on employees as well as the cost of that travel. The best solutions are both cost effective and ensure a traveller’s wellbeing.