Heathrow is hazardous to your health

 According to a neuropsychologist Heathrow airport is one of the world’s more stressful spots:

Dr Lewis said: “We have measured people in all kinds of situations from riot policemen confronting a stone throwing mob to racing drivers and sky-divers and these are among the highest peaks in heart rate and blood pressure that we have ever seen. The conditions at Heathrow Airport and the stress levels that passengers are routinely subject to poses a very grave danger to the health of travellers at the airport.”

Lewis told that Times of London that his tests showed that passengers’ heart rates often shot to dangerous levels as they endured security checkpoints, congested waiting areas, and rude staff. According to the Times:

Dr Lewis also found that the physiological stress levels recorded exceeded those of Formula 1 racing drivers or free-fall parachutists. Blood pressure rose from an average of 123/81 to peaks of around 170/99.

This is one more reason to chuck the checked bags. Eliminating the possibilty of lost luggage and the baggage carousel hassle should lower your stress level. But you’d better know the carryon rules and master the new liquid regulations or more trouble - and a higher heart rate -  awaits you.