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Is It Safe To Fly With Vertigo Problem?
I have vertigo when I am lying down and turn to the left side. It is the only time I have it. I am fine sitting up and walking around. I am also fine on my back or turning to the right. This has been going on since Monday. I need to know if I will be ok to fly across country or if the altitude change will hurt me more.
posted on
Thu, 13 Mar 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Thu, 21 Apr 2022
Answered on
Wed, 27 Apr 2022
Last reviewed on
Hello,
You have history of vertigo and you want to know if its safe to fly with vertigo problem. Flying is particularly not good for the vertigo patients. It is best to get treated before flying / traveling. Sometimes, vertigo / dizziness may get worse. Before flying, you should inform your treating doctor. Do not fly if the doctor restricts you. If your treating doctor allows you to fly then be sure to discuss the medications that are necessary for you to control your symptoms by your doctor.
You should carry the prescription and over-the-counter medications for nausea, dizziness, or vertigo with you. The brain is very susceptible to low oxygen, low oxygen level in the plane may trigger the symptoms and may make the vertigo worse. For precaution you should request wheelchair service from the airline to avoid easy fatigue or dizziness. Make sure you are not dehydrated. Do not pick luggage by yourself, take someone's help. Avoid repeatedly bending over to pick things, it may trigger symptoms. Take precautions and get treated at the earliest.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
You have history of vertigo and you want to know if its safe to fly with vertigo problem. Flying is particularly not good for the vertigo patients. It is best to get treated before flying / traveling. Sometimes, vertigo / dizziness may get worse. Before flying, you should inform your treating doctor. Do not fly if the doctor restricts you. If your treating doctor allows you to fly then be sure to discuss the medications that are necessary for you to control your symptoms by your doctor.
You should carry the prescription and over-the-counter medications for nausea, dizziness, or vertigo with you. The brain is very susceptible to low oxygen, low oxygen level in the plane may trigger the symptoms and may make the vertigo worse. For precaution you should request wheelchair service from the airline to avoid easy fatigue or dizziness. Make sure you are not dehydrated. Do not pick luggage by yourself, take someone's help. Avoid repeatedly bending over to pick things, it may trigger symptoms. Take precautions and get treated at the earliest.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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