For most people, air travel occurs without serious consequences; however, for some passengers, flying can be a significant test for the body. Therapist Svetlana Burnatskaya explained which diseases and conditions doctors recommend avoiding air travel or consulting a specialist in advance.
For some, flying may be a routine part of life. However, such journeys still place a burden on the body. Low pressure, dry air, and lower oxygen levels can affect even a healthy person's well-being, and the risks significantly increase in the presence of chronic diseases.
Of course, not every vacation spot can be reached by train or car. However, when choosing a travel destination and mode of transport, it is important to consider one's own health condition.
Who Should Avoid Flying
According to therapist and occupational pathologist Svetlana Burnatskaya, a person on board an airplane finds themselves in unusual conditions.
"On board an airplane, a person is in unfamiliar conditions: low pressure, dry air, and reduced oxygen levels. For healthy people, this often goes unnoticed, but under certain conditions, it can become a serious burden on the body and lead to complications," explains the specialist.
People who have recently suffered a heart attack or stroke should be especially cautious. After such conditions, doctors usually recommend refraining from flying for several weeks, and sometimes longer, depending on individual recovery characteristics.
Severe chronic diseases also require heightened attention. Uncontrolled arterial hypertension, vascular diseases, thrombosis, and pronounced varicose veins can significantly increase the risk of complications during a flight.
Individuals who require constant medical support, such as hemodialysis or oxygen therapy, should consult a doctor in advance and notify the airline of their condition.
After Surgeries and with ENT Diseases
Caution is also necessary in the first weeks after surgical interventions. During this period, the risk of complications remains, and flying can further burden the body and slow recovery.
Moreover, even relatively common ear, throat, and nose diseases can cause significant discomfort.
"Common ear, throat, or nose diseases can turn out to be not so harmless: due to pressure changes, they can cause severe pain and worsen well-being," warns Burnatskaya.
Infections and Pregnancy
Infectious diseases form a separate group. Passengers with symptoms of influenza, chickenpox, and other contagious diseases may be denied boarding, as infections spread particularly quickly in the confined space of an airplane.
There are also restrictions for pregnant women. After the 35th–36th week of pregnancy, airlines often refuse boarding, and in the case of multiple pregnancies, restrictions may be imposed even earlier. At earlier stages, a future mother may require a medical certificate.
Non-obvious Risk Factors
Sometimes danger lurks in situations that do not seem serious. For example, after diving, the body needs time to recover, and flying immediately after dives may be undesirable.
Additionally, people with pronounced fatigue, anxiety disorders, and a tendency to panic attacks tolerate flights worse.
According to the doctor, the airline formally makes the decision regarding a passenger's eligibility for the flight. If staff have doubts about a person's health condition, they may deny boarding. Therefore, a medical certificate often becomes an important document confirming the possibility of safe travel.
Most people tolerate air travel well; however, in some diseases and conditions, flying can pose a serious threat to health. If there are doubts, a recent illness, surgery, or exacerbation of chronic issues, it is advisable to consult a doctor before traveling. Sometimes the most reasonable decision is indeed to choose a train or postpone the trip until full recovery.
