COPD and travelling

[phillintq]

Good morning everyone. My daughter has asked me to go to Tenerife with her and the family, I have copd and as it is a 4hr flight are there any precautions I should take. We went to Majorca last year (2.5hr flight) and apart from being very slow and having to rest quite often managed ok. Any advice will be welcome.

[silversurfer]

A chat with your practice nurse might be the best thing to do. I can't give any advice as my copd is mild at the moment but there is a lot of help and info available here. I'm sure someone will come along soon to help.

Bethan.

[Toci]

You don't give much information about the stage or limitations of your disease. You may need to have a fit to fly assessment to determine whether or not you need supplemental oxygen during the flight. Speak to your respiratory nurse/consultant for further advice.

[louloublue]

Hello there...... your forth coming holiday sounds like a great idea.... its difficult travelling with copd... (i know).... i would ask about a fit to fly test... this will determin if you require oxygen when flying...... I mayself require supplementary oxygen... when flying.. i rent a portable concentrator from a company - its a private company who are just soooo brilliant. Let me know if you would like theri number... i find it takes the stress off a little.

Good luck we all wish you well. x x x lou loublue

[Hidden]

My husband has severe COPD and was always horrendous when flying and just doesn't anymore (personally I think COPD has been the excuse he has been waiting for!!) His friend who has moderate COPD is flying to Australia next month!! If you were OK on the Majorca flight I can't imagine you would have any problems. Having said that I would go and talk to your Doctor and ask if he would prescribe you with emergency antibiotics and steroids (if you normally have them) - just in case you are ill while you are away. Have a fabulous holiday I think you will be fine! TAD xxx

[phillintq]

Many thanks for all the advice given will take on board and hopefully have a great holiday.

[SusieQs]

I suppose it all depends what copd stage you are. A couple of years ago at this time I was in Gran Canaria and I must have been at the severe stage then. Just found it difficult walking miles from the plane to the entrance of the airport but if you need it you can get an assisted flight. I wouldn`t have any hesitation about going again.

[meike]

Hi, I would suggest that you ask for airport assistance getting to the plane and going through customs I had wheelchair assistance last year and it was lovely knowing that I would not get out of breath on the sometimes long walks to the gates you can arrange it through your holiday company, or direct with the airport don't forget your rescue meds have a wonderful time x

[meike]

Ps forgot to mention I got a fit to fly letter from my doctor

[dantheman]

I have mild COPD and flew to New York in November with no problems

[needtobreathe]

Your oxygen level needs to be over 76 I think. Your GP will test it and give you the all clear to fly.Just take Abs with you, and anything else you would normally need if you got an infection. take it in your hand luggage. Make sure you're E111 card is up to date. I forgot one year to check it and was in a panic to renew it. I've COPD for over 60yrs a xnd have flown all over Europe and been USA several times. If your oxygen levels are okay, go and enjoy the change of air will be great. Oh and don't forget to get a seat in front of the engines, the fumes from them can be annoying when you're sat on the tarmac at takeoff and landing.xx

[yumyum]

Not sure if a fit to fly from your doctor covers both ways with the airline as an infection may develop during holiday i have been in Tenerife for 2 weeks and have to go to local doctor yumyum

[Lurcherman]

Fit to Fly check up is good advice and make sure you have enough sun cream!!

Have a great time....

[fishtail]

my advice.? GO,have fun.!!!!!!!!!!!