Air Travel, Asthma and Breathing Problems

Sonia Jones ND from The Haven Spa and Alternative Treatment Clinic, Boquete, Panama

You need to consider a few things before you decide to travel by air.

The air pressure in the air craft cabin is lower than you are use to, unless you live in a mountain area that is 6000 to 8000 feet high. At high altitude people’s blood oxygen levels fall and some people become a little breathless. If you already have low blood oxygen due to your breathing problems this situation will make things worse. If you are unsure about how bad your condition is, ask your doctor about some breathing tests.

I have heard if you have breathing problems you can organize oxygen for the flight but this must be done well in advance, weeks. Check with the airlines.

You might need a letter from you doctor about your condition and the medication you need to take in your hand luggage. All the regulations about what you can carry on board are so strict now. So make sure to find out about the regulations and what you need to do, in plenty of time.

If you have an inhaler, it is important to have one in your hand luggage to use during the flight, if needed, and the other one in your suite case as a spare.

Leave loads of time to get to your gate, so you can walk slowly without any anxiety. If the gate is far a way there are always airport staff that can help you.

Absolutely no alcoholic drinks before or during the flight, drink plenty of water.

If you are generally anxious about flying you will need to learn some relaxation techniques.

Do not travel if you have a cold, cough or flu, and if you have recently had a chest infection make sure you get the all clear from you doctor.