Yes, experiencing chest pressure and breathing difficulties during flights is something many people with pulmonary hypertension face. The changes in cabin pressure and altitude can affect how you feel during air travel. That's why it's essential to discuss any travel plans with your doctor beforehand to ensure you're making Show Full Answer
Yes, experiencing chest pressure and breathing difficulties during flights is something many people with pulmonary hypertension face. The changes in cabin pressure and altitude can affect how you feel during air travel. That's why it's essential to discuss any travel plans with your doctor beforehand to ensure you're making safe decisions.
A key recommendation for flying with PH is using a portable oxygen concentrator. These devices help by pulling oxygen from the air and filtering out nitrogen, providing your body with higher oxygen levels during flight. One myPHteam member shared their experience: "I have idiopathic PAH, and I fly with oxygen. I have a portable travel oxygen concentrator that I use when flying and in the elevator when my oxygen saturation drops." If you plan to fly again, speak with your healthcare team about whether a portable oxygen concentrator might be helpful for you, and discuss any specific precautions you should take during air travel.
April 25, 2025