What happens if you go on a plane with a collapsed lung?
What happens if you go on a plane with a collapsed lung? Pneumothorax and scheduled flights This significant difference from the air pressure at ground level can cause expansion of the air trapped in the patient's pleural space and a worsening of existing pneumothorax. Therefore, if you have an acute pneumothorax, taking a scheduled flight is normally not advisable.
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.
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.