Can I fly with chronic bronchitis?


Can I fly with chronic bronchitis? Hence, in case of severe bronchitis, fluid in the lungs or any other respiratory issue, we can equip the plane with the necessary devices, if they are not already on the air ambulance, and conduct a sea-level flight to ensure that the patient can travel safely.


Is it safe to fly with chronic lung disease?

With optimised care, patients can fly without any additional risk. Clinical and functional evaluation for fitness to fly and possible risk factors for in-flight hypoxaemia should be assessed in all COPD patients before flying.


Can I fly with a chesty cough?

Patients with active or contagious chest infections should avoid traveling until they are no longer infectious, as they may infect those sitting next to them. Flying is usually possible 7 to 10 days after the infection, even though the cough and mucus can last up to 3 weeks.


What happens if you are congested and fly?

“If you've got inflammation blocking your means of equalizing the pressure, that's going to hurt,” he said. That pain can continue even after your flight as inflammation prevents the pressure from equalizing, Adalja added. It can also lead to trouble hearing, vertigo, and in rare cases, damage to the eardrum, Wu said.


Can flying exacerbate pneumonia?

However, if the breathing rate is already accelerated due to pneumonia and the traveller is unable to take in enough oxygen, this situation, and thus the patient's condition, can deteriorate further.


Can you fly with an inflamed lung?

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the thin layers of tissue that cover the lungs and ribcage. It causes severe chest pain and difficulty breathing. Flying commercially while suffering from pleurisy is strongly discouraged. Pulmonary embolism and respiratory distress are the two most feared complications.


Can people with respiratory problems fly?

Having a lung condition should not stop you from travelling by air. Whether you are going on holiday, a business trip or a visit to family and friends, it should be possible to make the necessary arrangements - as long as you plan ahead.


Is flying hard on your lungs?

Low air pressure during air travel also decreases the amount of oxygen in the air. This effect is modest and generally not noticeable for healthy travelers. For patients with significant lung disease, a small decrease in available oxygen can cause significant symptoms, especially with exercise.