Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Can A Person With Collapsed Lungs Travel By Flight?
Hi, my son is 29 years old young thin man , (144 pounds, 5 ft 11 inch). recently, he has twice collapsed lungs in two months. however, he had surgery last week, right now is in the recovery mode. My questions are: collapsed lungs life expectancy, and could he fly to japan for his honeymoon, just got married last three weeks?
Tue, 26 Dec 2023
Hi,
In collapsed lungs, the prognosis will depend on the disease process leading to collapse as well as extent of damage to lungs due to process of collapse. The prognosis may be different in each individual case. Many a times very small portion of collapsed lungs will recover itself within some time, on its own. However, after a surgical treatment of collapsed lungs, by thoracotomy, usually it takes 3-4 months for the complete recovery.
Also, in your case, as the surgery has been done only last week, therefore, the recovery period is still present. Hence in this condition, as the lung function is already compromised, it is not advisable for you to subject yourself into some strenuous activities. Also, as usually, the low air pressure at altitude during flight, may be detrimental for the health of your already recovering lungs. Hence, taking into consideration of all these facts, it will be better, if you defer your program at least for 2-3 months or so.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician
In collapsed lungs, the prognosis will depend on the disease process leading to collapse as well as extent of damage to lungs due to process of collapse. The prognosis may be different in each individual case. Many a times very small portion of collapsed lungs will recover itself within some time, on its own. However, after a surgical treatment of collapsed lungs, by thoracotomy, usually it takes 3-4 months for the complete recovery.
Also, in your case, as the surgery has been done only last week, therefore, the recovery period is still present. Hence in this condition, as the lung function is already compromised, it is not advisable for you to subject yourself into some strenuous activities. Also, as usually, the low air pressure at altitude during flight, may be detrimental for the health of your already recovering lungs. Hence, taking into consideration of all these facts, it will be better, if you defer your program at least for 2-3 months or so.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....