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Real members of MyCOPDTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can You Take Rescue Inhalers On Plane Flights? How Does The Change In Cabin Pressure Affect My Breathing During A Flight From TX To Pa?

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Seguin, TX
May 23, 2019
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A MyCOPDTeam Member

You can certainly take your inhalers on plane flights. As for how you'll do at altitude is a questions you probably want to take up with your doc. If you've ever been to Denver and had problems, you will need O2 for flying. Your O2 saturation levels will go down as the plane goes higher. Planes are usually only pressurized to 6000 to 8000 feet, and if you're in a plane at the upper end of that range, you'll likely need supplemental O2 for the flight. There is a High Altitude Simulation Test you can have that will tell you whether you'll need O2 for the flight or not.

May 24, 2019
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Thank you

May 24, 2019
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Thank you

May 23, 2019
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Commercial aircraft are usually pressurized to 10,000 feet. That is, the air pressure in the cabin is the same as if you were outside at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Humans generally have no trouble breathing at that altitude. When you get above 13,000 the reduced air pressure will start to have an effect on your brain activity. 26,000 feet is what mountaineers call "the death zone" where there isn't enough air pressure to support human life.

May 23, 2019
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Yes, I had no problems at first.

May 23, 2019

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