Is It Ok To Fly With Pneumonia?

In most cases, it’s generally not recommended to fly with pneumonia due to the risks associated with the condition and the effects of air travel on the lungs. Flying while actively ill with pneumonia can be dangerous because the changes in air pressure during a flight can exacerbate the symptoms and potentially lead to complications. 

Is It Ok To Fly With Pneumonia?

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Risks of fly with Pneumonia

• Reduced oxygen levels:The lower cabin pressure at altitude can reduce the amount of oxygen available, which can strain the lungs and heart, especially for someone already struggling with pneumonia. 
• Fluid build-up:Changes in pressure can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, further restricting breathing and oxygen intake. 
• Infection spread:Pneumonia, especially if contagious, can spread through the air via coughing and sneezing, potentially infecting other passengers. 
• Exacerbation of symptoms:Flying can worsen existing pneumonia symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. 

Recommendations

• Consult a doctor:Before flying with pneumonia, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor to assess your specific condition and determine if it’s safe to travel. 
• Delay travel:If you have pneumonia, especially a contagious form, it’s best to postpone travel until you have fully recovered and are no longer infectious. 
• Consider medical repatriation:If you need to travel for medical reasons while recovering from pneumonia, consider medical repatriation services, which provide specialized transportation and medical support. 
• Air ambulance:If your condition requires it, an air ambulance may be a safer option than a commercial flight, offering a controlled environment and medical support. 

Other Treatment

• Contagious pneumonia:If you have a contagious form of pneumonia, you should avoid air travel to protect others. 
• Exercise tolerance:Some airlines may require a certain level of exercise tolerance before allowing passengers to fly. 
• Oxygen levels:If your oxygen saturation levels are low, you may need to carry supplemental oxygen during the flight. 
• Medications:Ensure you have all necessary medications and that they are allowed to be carried on the plane.