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Is Flying Safe When Suffering From COPD?
Question: Can I fly if I have COPD?
Brief Answer:
can fly once have supplemental oxygen
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Flying results in mild hypoxemia, this is a mild decrease in the oxygen levels in the blood which would not be noticed by most persons.
However because of your COPD it is possible that this reduction would have an effect on you.
The extent would depend on the severity of your COPD.
If you have supplemental oxygen with you then this can be used to keep your oxygen levels with your normal range.
You can therefore fly , if you receive clearance from your doctor and once you have your supplemental oxygen with you so that you can use it if needed.You may not need it but it would be best to have it in case you do require help.
You may need a prescription or letter from your doctor to show to the airline staff.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
can fly once have supplemental oxygen
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Flying results in mild hypoxemia, this is a mild decrease in the oxygen levels in the blood which would not be noticed by most persons.
However because of your COPD it is possible that this reduction would have an effect on you.
The extent would depend on the severity of your COPD.
If you have supplemental oxygen with you then this can be used to keep your oxygen levels with your normal range.
You can therefore fly , if you receive clearance from your doctor and once you have your supplemental oxygen with you so that you can use it if needed.You may not need it but it would be best to have it in case you do require help.
You may need a prescription or letter from your doctor to show to the airline staff.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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