HomeAnswersPulmonology (Asthma Doctors)breathing problemsHow much O2 can be used for the breathing problem in flight?

For breathing problem in flight, how much O2 should I use?

Share
For breathing problem in flight, how much O2 should I use?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At September 28, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 2, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had chronic asthma and allergies in my whole life. I am currently taking four puffs of Qvar three times a day, Accolate twice a day, Xopenex as needed and DuoNeb as needed (nebulizer). I am in control almost all the time. I also have a hyperactive immune system where I end up with chronic pneumonia. The last time when I traveled in flight, I had breathing problems for about an hour and then on and off for the next three days. I discussed this with my primary care doctor and he suggested that the cabin pressure exasperated my asthma. Then, the altitude change continued to stress my lungs. He suggested using an oxygen concentrator in flight next time. I fly again in two weeks and as needed. I did not know how much I should use. Is it reasonable to check my oxygen (O2) blood levels and then use O2 based on these readings? How many liters per minute should I start with? How long would I expect it to take to recover or increase the amount? Or should I just use the concentrator for the last hour or two of my flight and see how it goes? If so, then how many liters per minute should I use?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. We are here to help you. Yes, your doctor is right that you probably developed altitude sickness. There is no point in measuring oxygen levels as initially at this stage your oxygen levels may come out to be normal. But, your body's acclimatization may be under process causing you trouble. The best option is to use oxygen at 0.26 to 0.53 gallons per minute during the flight hours. Even if this does not work, then the other option is to add up Acetazolamide. It will help greatly in these situations, but needs to be started 48 hours prior to your flight.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Anshul Varshney
Dr. Anshul Varshney

Internal Medicine

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy