"Flying may put you at risk, proceed at your own peril"

"Flying may put you at risk, proceed at your own peril"

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Flying can be an exciting experience, but for some individuals with certain health conditions, it may carry distinct health risks. Here's a guide on what you should consider if you have respiratory infections, gastrointestinal issues, heart diseases, or fevers before booking your next flight.

Respiratory Infections

Individuals with respiratory infections such as a severe cold or sinus or middle ear infection should be cautious when flying. Risks include worsened breathing difficulties due to lower oxygen levels (hypoxia), pulmonary barotrauma from pressure changes, increased exposure to airborne infections due to recirculated dry air, and dehydration thickening mucus.

To mitigate these risks, it's essential to consult a respiratory specialist before flying. Carry and properly use prescribed medications, and avoid flying if infections are active or if there are contraindications like recent pneumothorax. Staying well-hydrated and minimizing exposure to germ transmission by wiping surfaces and practicing good hygiene can also help.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Travelling with gastrointestinal issues can lead to complications such as diarrhea and infections, especially in developing countries. To prevent these issues, ensure vaccinations for preventable diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever are up-to-date well before travel. Maintain strict food and water hygiene, consult travel clinics, and drink safe fluids and eat protected food.

Heart Diseases

Those with heart diseases should be aware of the risks during flights. Low cabin oxygen pressure can exacerbate symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, or fatigue, and increase the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) especially on long flights.

To ensure safety, get medical clearance before flying, bring all cardiac medications, and discuss with a doctor about the need for oxygen or other supportive measures. Staying hydrated, moving legs frequently, considering compression stockings on long flights, and notifying the airline for special assistance if needed are also recommended.

Fevers

Flying with a fever can signal active infection and raises the risk of worsening illness and transmitting infections to others. Fevers can also indicate underlying heart or lung complications exacerbated by flight conditions.

To prevent these risks, it's best to avoid flying if you have a fever until evaluated and stabilized. Seek medical advice before travel, maintain hydration, and practice infection control measures to protect yourself and others.

For all these conditions, advance consultation with healthcare providers is essential to assess fitness to fly, obtain appropriate documentation, and plan necessary in-flight care and precautions.

It's important to note that airlines have the right to refuse to let you fly if you're sick, especially if there's a risk to your or others' health and safety. In such a case, the flight ticket would be invalid, and you'd have to bear the costs yourself.

Stay healthy and safe during your travels!

[1] Apotheken Umschau [2] ENT specialist Sylvia Brockhaus [3] Airline guidelines for passengers with health conditions [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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