Health Conditions That Discourage Air Travel for Patients

Dr. Roman Gorenkov, chief expert at the Russian Ministry of Health, said that anyone with chronic illness should refrain from flying.

In an interview with Radio Sputnik, the doctor pointed out that the takeoff and landing of the aircraft are accompanied by sharp fluctuations in atmospheric pressure inside the aircraft. Passengers also experience stress during the flight, as they sit for several hours and breathe air with low humidity.

“Pressure fluctuations during flight can exacerbate ear conditions such as chronic otitis media. This disease is a contraindication to air travel,” he says.

According to him, it is better for a person suffering from cardiovascular diseases to refrain from air travel. Examples of these diseases include the worsening of high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. People with chronic venous insufficiency also belong to a special risk group. Because a forced sitting position can lead to acute blood clots at low pressure, and in the worst cases, to a pulmonary embolism.

He says: “These people need to exercise on the plane, and they need to fly in compression stockings and take medications that improve the state of blood vessels. You may need two doses of them as directed by your doctor.”
The doctor advises those suffering from bronchial asthma to always carry an inhaler on the plane. Because dry air in an airplane cabin can trigger an asthma attack.

According to him, a person with mental disorders can face unexpected dangers during the flight.
He says: “If a passenger suffers from mental disorders, then flying is dangerous for him and other passengers. Because he can suffer from acute psychosis and panic attacks.”

The doctor advises the elderly and patients with chronic diseases to consult a doctor before flying.

Source: News