Brinchiectasis and air travel
Posted , 10 users are following.
Hello all. I have a question in regards to air travel for people with bronchiestasis. Does anyone have breathing difficulties when flying? I don't know if it will be harder to breath when in an airplane.
Also are rescue inhalers allowed on planes?
1 like, 16 replies
aitarg35939 wanda30706
Posted
If you're in North America there's never been a problem with inhalers so long as you have the doctor's prescription with you. Ask the airline if you need more than that.
wanda30706 aitarg35939
Posted
4jean wanda30706
Posted
Flying doesn't seem to affect my breathing at all. I don't use an inhaler (yet!)
joviswoman wanda30706
Posted
I flew to USA last year and as long as all medication, including inhalers, are in clear plastic bags with your medication list from GP, you're fine with it.
We went thru 2 lots of American security and that was fine too.
I must admit that when flying, because of air being pumped into the plane I didn't cough once while we were in the air. I actually found it easier up there for my lung.
It may not be the same for everyone, but I was fine.
wanda30706 joviswoman
Posted
Jovis, thanks so much for your response. The info helps a lot. I didn't know what to expect with airport security and being up in a plane. I haven't flown in years and I have recently retired and want to plan some trips. Take care.
xuanling wanda30706
Posted
He has been flying to a few countries without breath problems.
Here are preparation we did for him:
- request a letter from doctor that list down all his medication to bring along with in flight.
- we were told inside the plane must give him more fluid and prevent him from any lack of hydration problem.
- we give him as comfortable as we could bring his jacket ensure he will not catch cold inside the flight.
So far he is ok and we wish you all the best and have a safe trip.
wanda30706 xuanling
Posted
aitarg35939 xuanling
Posted
steve62514 wanda30706
Posted
I always have a rescue inhaler in my man bag (which I rarely use as Symbicort twice a day works fine). No problems with any non-liquid legal meds in your hand/onboard or in checked-in stowed lugage. Liquids need to be less than 100ml and in a plastic bag (available when you approach security after check-in).
You are in a good place if you do have breayhing difficulties - planes carry oxygen/mask kits. Ask an inflight attendant if you are in discomfort.
Go for it!
steve62514
Posted
I have never carried prescriptions and never been challenged but probably wise if you are risk-averse.
Can't think of any regular bronkx meds tjat would trouble customs/immigration
wanda30706 steve62514
Posted
Russell27NOLA wanda30706
Posted
Wanda, I am not having trouble flying. The cabin is presurized and contains the same amount of oxyegen as a sea level. Last Novemeber I had trouble clearing my ears coming back home form my trip, becasue I caught a cold on the flight going out. I think if anything that respratory infections are our bigger threat.
At the same time I would ask you to check with your pulononlogist. I'm not sure what your O2 Saturations run a sealevel.
Best
Russ
wanda30706 Russell27NOLA
Posted
Are you in New Orleans?
charles97600 wanda30706
Posted
Yes ,No poblem bringing on anything, I travel with my Neb and just take it out as i do my computer along with all my meds with my carry-on and carry my rescue with me in my pocket,as for breathing no problem ever, I travel to the west Indies twice a year no problem,but of course it would depend on how bad your BX is that would be the problem,but air seems to beoksy on the plane as you can also control the overhead air if need be.
Stay Well,
Charles
wanda30706 charles97600
Posted