If you’re unfit to fly, don’t—the stresses of flying can exacerbate medical conditions and lead to complications. Although the high cost of changing plane tickets tempts many to fly even when ill, the decreased air pressure and physiological demands of flying can significantly impact health.
Here are several scenarios where flying should be postponed.
Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, flying too soon can be risky. It is advised to wait at least one to two weeks after abdominal or chest surgery before boarding a plane. This precaution allows the body to heal and reduces the risk of complications such as sutures tearing or tissues being damaged due to the expansion of trapped gases, which can occur when cabin pressure decreases at high altitudes. Additionally, following certain eye or head surgeries, it’s crucial to wait until any air introduced into the body during the procedure is fully reabsorbed.
Pregnancy
Expectant mothers are generally advised not to fly after the 36th week of pregnancy, or the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Many airlines require a certificate after 28 weeks, indicating the expected delivery date. In high-risk pregnancies, flying may be discouraged even earlier to avoid complications.
Infectious Diseases
If you have an infectious disease such as the flu, it’s best to wait until you are no longer contagious. This protects both your health and the well-being of fellow passengers.
Get Ready for Your Next Adventure! Heidi Geib, RPh owner of Heidi’s Pharmacy, and her expert team are your go-to for all travel health needs. From essential vaccinations to managing jet lag, handling medication emergencies, getting refills on the go, and tackling motion sickness, they’ve got you covered. Get ready to travel with confidence!
