Amusement park rides have been a popular source of entertainment for people of all ages since their inception. However, there are those who experience a sudden loss of consciousness on these rides, leading to what can sometimes be a dangerous situation. In this article, we will explore the reasons why people pass out on amusement park rides and how to prevent such occurrences.
What causes people to pass out on rides?
Some people are more susceptible to passing out on amusement park rides than others. One of the primary reasons for this is the intense physical forces that the human body experiences while on a ride. Most rides involve sudden acceleration, sudden changes in direction, and sudden stops, all of which can cause blood to pool in the lower extremities, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital, explains that “when the body experiences the rapid onset of high g-forces, it can lead to the pooling of blood in the lower extremities and abdomen, which can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood to the brain.”
This sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure can lead to a lack of oxygen to the brain, which in turn can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting.
Another reason why people pass out on rides is due to anxiety or fear. A person who is scared or anxious about riding a specific ride may experience an increase in heart rate and breathing rate, leading to a state of hyperventilation. This can cause a drop in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, leading to an imbalance in the body’s pH levels that can result in fainting.
Additionally, people who have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or inner ear problems may also be more prone to passing out on rides.
How can you avoid passing out on amusement park rides?
Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent passing out while on amusement park rides:
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help ensure that your blood pressure remains stable, reducing the risk of fainting.
Breathe: Deep breathing exercises can help alleviate feelings of anxiety or fear, which can prevent hyperventilation and a drop in carbon dioxide levels.
Know your limits: It’s important to know your physical limitations, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions that could increase your risk of passing out on a ride.
Take breaks: Taking frequent breaks to rest and recover can help prevent fatigue and dizziness.
Are certain people more prone to passing out on rides?
As previously mentioned, people with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure may be more prone to passing out on rides. Additionally, people who are susceptible to motion sickness may also experience a heightened risk of passing out due to the intense physical forces experienced on a ride.
Ultimately, it’s essential to know your body and understand your physical limitations to prevent passing out on rides.
References
- “Why Do Some People Faint On Roller Coasters?”. Health. Accessed September 23, 2021. www.health.com/condition/heart-disease/fainting-on-roller-coasters.
- Yeager, Ashley. “Why Some People Pass Out on Roller Coasters”. The Atlantic. Accessed September 23, 2021. www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2018/06/the-science-of-passing-out-on-a-roller-coaster/563624/.