COPD & Flying

[y_not]

Hi All, I have COPD (no oxygen) does this have any impact on flying as I've been offered a new job which will involve flying to Poland five or six times a year?

I normally holiday in the UK as I got fed up of flight issues every time I went abroad, so I haven't flown since being diagnosed.

[Easybreather]

Hi y_not,

Sorry, but the only person that could answer this for you is your medical adviser - GP, Consultant or Respiratory Nurse. If necessary, they will give you a "fit to fly" test, which will determine whether or not you can fly without oxygen. Even though currently not on oxygen, some people need it just to fly as sats levels can drop alarmingly under pressure.

Good luck with the new job

[libby7827]

Hi, would just add to easybreather's great reply that you can ring the BLF helpline for advice on 03000 030 555 or email them at [e-mail]. I know you will be flying for work reasons, but I believe they can send you a holiday pack which will no doubt have advice that would also be helpful to you. All the best for your new job. LIbby

[Hidden]

Hi y not! The only way for that question to be answered is to have a test,which is like an in flight simulator, which shows your 02 levels,when taking of,up in air & landing.Just cant think of the proper name of the test at the moment GRR! I am not normally on 02 either, but did need it for the flights, to & from Australia.They will assess how much you need & what rate etc. Good luck xx

[Jo_BLFHelpline British Lung Foundation]

Hi y not

Congratulations on the job.

Having a lung condition dosen't always mean you will need oxygen to fly, but the best thing to do will be to speak to your GP - they should be able to advice or refer you on the the hospital for a flight assessment.

Please click on the link for more information flying with a lung condition:

blf.org.uk/Page/Air-travel-...

Please call us if we can help further - 03000 030 555.

Cheers

Jo

[Polly63]

Hi I have COPD and I take 6 to 7 hour flight 3 times a year, no problem. I also ensure my medication is in my hand luggage and I bought a battery operated nebuliser just as an emergency. I take spiriva, sere tide,ventolin. I know everyone is different,, so ask your copd nurse. Hope you manage to go

[als1uk]

i have copd and was fine making a 2 and a half hour flight to menorca but last time a flew to tenerife over 4hrs towards the latter part of the flight i was breathless! but since flying there i have now been prescribed home oxygen so maybe that my lungs had got worse before i flew!! have a chat with ur specialist and gp before flying and congratulations on the job !!

[LizzieDoll]

I have COPD and have flown to Australia twice and was fine, but I suppose everyone is different.