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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Safe Is To Travel In Flight While Having Collapsed Lung?

My partner has just been diagnosed with a collapsed lung. He requires further testing, including blood tests, in the near future as there is a possibility it may be due to cancer. We are due to go on a trip in a week from now (Jan. 12) which includes two fairly long flights on the 13th, and leaving on a fourteen day cruise starting on the 14th. He is 73. I am concerned,especially about the flight. Should we cancel?
Tue, 29 Dec 2015
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Collapsed lung as such is not a contraindication for air travel in asymptomatic patient.
So if your partner is having normal life without any symptoms like cough, breathlessness, hemoptysis (blood in sputum) then no need to worry for air travel and he can travel without fear.
But if he is having symptoms like breathlessness, coughing, hemoptysis then better not to travel in long duration flight. Because possibility of worsening of these symptoms is high during long flights.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your partner. Thanks.
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How Safe Is To Travel In Flight While Having Collapsed Lung?

Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. Collapsed lung as such is not a contraindication for air travel in asymptomatic patient. So if your partner is having normal life without any symptoms like cough, breathlessness, hemoptysis (blood in sputum) then no need to worry for air travel and he can travel without fear. But if he is having symptoms like breathlessness, coughing, hemoptysis then better not to travel in long duration flight. Because possibility of worsening of these symptoms is high during long flights. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your partner. Thanks.