A Guide to Traveling With Lung Disease

Introduction

Having a medical condition should not be a barrier to travel, but it does require thoughtful planning, whether taking the road or flying. Several preparations are needed to ensure the well-being and comfort of the patient throughout the journey. Traveling with a medical condition involves taking into account various factors such as weather conditions, air quality, altitude, allergens like pollen, and suitable accommodation for the patient's specific needs.

What Are the Important Steps to Consider Before Traveling?

• Consult with a Specialist: Before the trip, consult with a doctor, preferably a pulmonologist or a lung disease specialist, who can assess the current condition, provide advice, and help make necessary travel arrangements.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional Before the trip, especially if one:

• Experience frequent shortness of breath.

• Become breathless after walking short distances.

• Have a history of hospitalization for breathing difficulties.

• Use oxygen at home, especially at night or after physical activity.

• Have had conditions like pneumonia, chest surgery, or collapsed lungs.

• Medications and Supplies: Ensure to have an ample supply of medications, inhalers, and any necessary medical equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, or oximeters which can even be purchased online. Pack them in carry-on luggage, along with a copy of the prescription and a letter from the doctor explaining the condition and the need for these items.

• Travel Insurance: It is essential to have travel insurance that covers all potential medical emergencies, including those related to the lung condition.

• Destination Selection: Opt for destinations with good air quality and lower altitudes, as higher altitudes can exacerbate respiratory illnesses. Avoid areas with extreme weather conditions that could negatively impact the health.

• Mode of Transportation: Depending on the condition, consider the mode of transportation that suits one the best. If flying, make arrangements for any necessary oxygen well in advance, as changes in air pressure and quality can pose challenges.

• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for keeping the airways moist and reducing the risk of exacerbating lung disease during travel.

• Rest and Pacing: Avoid overexertion while traveling, take regular rest breaks, and plan the journey to prevent fatigue.

• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including the doctor's contact information and the nearest medical facilities at the destination.

• Supplemental Oxygen: If the patient requires supplemental oxygen, make sure to have a portable oxygen concentrator that meets airline regulations for use during the travels.

• Allergy Awareness: Be cautious about potential allergens like pollen or mold, which can trigger the lung condition. Take necessary precautions to minimize exposure.

• COVID-19 Precautions: Stay informed about any COVID-19-related travel restrictions, mask mandates, and vaccination requirements at the destination. People with lung diseases are at higher risk of respiratory infections, including COVID-19.

What Are the Important Tips for Safe Air Travel with Lung Diseases?

Air travel with lung diseases requires special consideration due to the lower oxygen levels on planes. In healthy individuals with normal lung function, the reduced oxygen in flight is generally well-tolerated. But, for those with lung diseases, this can lead to discomfort and potential health risks.

To ensure a safe journey, assess the need for supplemental oxygen during air travel. It is assessed by the following tests:

• Hypoxic Challenge Test: Patients should consider taking a hypoxic challenge or fit-to-fly test, recommended by their doctor.

• Blood Gas Test: A blood gas test assesses baseline oxygen levels. If levels are low, the doctor may recommend in-flight oxygen.

• Fit to Fly Test:

  • The patient undergoes a fit-to-fly test, which involves breathing air with a similar oxygen level to that found in an airplane through a mouthpiece for about 20 minutes.

  • An oximeter monitors oxygen levels during the test.

  • If oxygen levels drop significantly during the test, the doctor may stop it and conduct another blood test to assess oxygen levels.

  • If the test completes successfully for the full 20 minutes, another blood sample is taken afterward to confirm oxygen levels.

  • Determining Oxygen Requirements: Following the test results, the doctor will determine the necessary oxygen flow rate or whether oxygen is needed at all based on the patient's specific condition.

• Titration Study: In some cases, a titration study may be conducted. This involves repeating the fit-to-fly test while breathing different levels of additional oxygen to find the optimal flow rate that maintains proper blood oxygen levels. The duration for which the test results remain valid varies based on the patient's health condition. The doctor will provide guidance on when the tests should be repeated to ensure the patient's safety during future flights.

• Airline's Oxygen Policy. Before the flight, go through the airline's oxygen policy if the passengers require oxygen during the journey. Airlines may have varying procedures in place:

• In-Flight Oxygen: Some airlines offer in-flight oxygen services, while others allow passengers to bring their own approved portable oxygen concentrators (as approved by the Federal Aviation Administration). Always check with the airline authorities to understand their specific oxygen provisions and policies.

• Medical Certificate (Fit-to-Fly Certificate): Airlines often require passengers to provide a medical certificate, commonly known as a fit-to-fly certificate. This certificate shows that the passenger is medically fit to travel with oxygen.

• Requesting Special Assistance: Passengers can request special assistance at both departure and destination airports. Airlines and airport staff will make the necessary arrangements to assist the individual, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience.

What Should Be Included in the Travel Checklist for Patients With Lung Diseases?

Before Traveling

• Ensure to have the medical prescription and enough supply of medication to last the entire trip.

• Have copies of the prescription and, if necessary, prescriptions for any other medications that might be required while traveling.

• Have a list of all the medications needed during the journey.

• Carry emergency medications in case of infections or symptom flare-ups.

• Contact the insurance company to make the necessary arrangements for coverage during the travel.

• Carry a portable nebulizer if needed.

• If traveling with oxygen, carry copies oxygen prescription and a letter confirming the need for oxygen.

• If taking a flight, make all necessary arrangements for oxygen supply during the journey.

While Traveling

• Wear a medical ID bracelet that lists the health conditions and any allergic responses.

• Regularly use hand sanitizer to kill germs and reduce the risk of infection.

• Keep the medications in the carry-on bag for easy access. When on the move, ensure to have the emergency medication or rescue inhaler at all times.

• If sitting for an extended period, remember to stretch the arms and legs to promote healthy blood circulation.

Conclusion

Traveling with lung diseases needs specific precautions to ensure a safe journey. Individuals with lung conditions need to get their doctor's approval and undergo a thorough assessment before going on a trip. Taking these steps, along with making necessary arrangements specific to the patient's health condition, can improve the travel experience and overall well-being during the journey. Proper planning and care for individuals with lung diseases help them enjoy travel while keeping their health a top priority.