snow and cold

Chest and lungs
1

Hi

I need to discuss with you some issues:. 

 I am Israeli, live in Tel Aviv. My mother died from COPD and her sister as well

Despite the fact that i am a biker that crossed Austria several times. 2 years ado I felt that I can not climb stairs I went to a FEV1 test and got - 52.

lately - 44

I do not use or need oxygen 

I need to fly to NY in Jan the 16th  - is there any dangerous in flying 12 hours (air pressure etc)? of course sick people in the jet is dangerous.

Then I am going to Utah -c20 2, 130 M above see level

is it dangerous?

My Dr encourage me

do you have any experience with my questions?

Tnx Nili

 

2

There aren't any problems, but I did feel as though the air was different on the plane with flying for so many hours when we went in July last year.

3

ahah

did you feel then any Difficulties on the plan?

4

Dear Nili....

I am AMAZED when people say "I do not use or need oxygen" or "I dread the day I have to use oxygen".....My GP and Pulmonary doctors put me on oxygen as soon as I was diagnosed.  I ONLY use it at night while I'm sleeping. I am on Spiriva and Symbicort but I feel SO great that I have to have my meds visible where I "put my face on" in the morning....otherwise I might forget my meds.  I was diagnosed 4 years ago, after a CT scan,  and when I went for my ANNUAL pulmonary checkup in December my doctor said my tests looked better than they did last year.  I also have a rescue inhaler but have never had to use it.  I live in Colorado so the altitude is 5,280 feet here. I have read that the use of oxygen with COPD lenghthens your life span.  Check with your doctors about this AND about flying.  More than one opinion is important.

5

TNX Sandy

I do not know why i am so affraid of oxygen.

Sunday (working day in Israel) I am going to get a third opinion with a  Pulmonary docto.

My GP said - do not fly

First  Pulmonary doctor said - fly

then I will get the 3rd opinion

Nili

6

Yes, Nili.  I am glad you are getting another opinion.  I have heard of many people with COPD that DO fly.  Think of all of the travelers that you see with little portable oxygen tanks.    I DO wish you the best....I know....COPD is confusing and frightening at first; however, when you learn how to deal with it and care for yourself, you do fall in to an acceptance of it.  Keep in touch!

7

Just gasping for breath a little, but seem to on any flights now. The way I saw it was it's worth it. 

8

I was prescribed fostair as soon as I found out I had copd 2 for first thing in morning and last thing at night and salbutamol for during the day.