in flight hypoxia

[Nanny49]

i’m due to go on a 4 hour flight in few weeks. My oxygen levels, at rest, are anywhere between 89 and 96. I’m concerned about how low my level will drop in flight. The airline we’re using does not provide supplemental oxygen. Any advice?

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

I use a portable oxygen concentrator when I fly.

The airlines require that the concentrator must have a battery that lasts twice the length of your flight.

My oxygen concentrator's battery lasts for 8 hours.

You will need a fit to fly letter from your GP to be allowed to use the concentrator during the flight.

I also use assisted travel, this means I avoid the very tiring standing in any queues.

Good luck and have a lovely holiday.

[Nanny49 in reply to Milkfairy]

thank you. I’m hoping I haven’t left this all too late - 6 weeks till departure.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Nanny49]

Have you had your fluctuating oxygen levels investigated?

Oxygen therapy needs to be prescribed by a doctor.

Oxygen in some circumstances eg if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, can be harmful.

I use oxygen at home and it was recommended by my Cardiologist and prescribed by my GP. I am monitored by the local nursing team.

nhs.uk/conditions/home-oxyg...

[Nanny49 in reply to Milkfairy]

thank you for your reply. I have since been told that oxygen for a flight has to be purchased. I don’t have a problem with this - depending on cost of course! Only found out today as GP had never had a request before. Shall have to enquire tomorrow.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Nanny49]

I bought my portable oxygen concentrator. You can rent a machine or buy a reconditioned concentrator.

You can only use an oxygen concentrator approved by the airline you're flying with.

[Nanny49]

sorry for the delay in responding - was hospitalised for a while but ok now. The flight is for a holiday. I’ve since been told that if I want oxygen I shall have to buy it. Only found this out this afternoon so need to make enquiries re cost.