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Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Denver, CO

Hi, I have never required oxygen for my PHTN but am going to a higher elevation soon with my grandson and husband. I've noticed as I get older, I have lower sats at elevations of 8000+ ft (we now live in the West at 5000 ft elev). The place we're going is remote (8000 ft), so I'd like to have my MD order some supplemental O2 in case I might need it. Does anyone else use supp O2 as needed when going to high elevations? Can I fly with a portable pack, and how do I get one that my insurance may… read more

September 3
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Be the first to react
A myPHteam Member

That test is called a HAST test. High altitude simulation test. Your PH specialist can order it for you. Most larger teaching hospitals will have it.

The test will tell you how long you can be at what altitude without O2 assist and it also measures that for when you are in a pressurized air cabin.

It’s like a Pulmonary Function Test where you simply sit in a glass booth breathing in a controlled air mixture and coughing, etc.

September 7
A myPHteam Member

Had a recent flight where sats unexpectedly dropped to <90%. Found out there is a test to measure need. But you must plan far enough ahead. Getting portable O2 far from home supplier was absolutely impossible for me. Flying home without it and hoping available on plane, if necessary.

September 7
A myPHteam Member

Thank you!

September 7
myPHteam

What a thoughtful way to plan ahead for your trip — your grandson is lucky to have such a prepared grandparent! Having a sat monitor is a great start, and wanting backup oxygen for a remote high-altitude destination is a very sensible precaution with PH.

Yes, others in the myPHteam community do use supplemental oxygen Show Full Answer

What a thoughtful way to plan ahead for your trip — your grandson is lucky to have such a prepared grandparent! Having a sat monitor is a great start, and wanting backup oxygen for a remote high-altitude destination is a very sensible precaution with PH.

Yes, others in the myPHteam community do use supplemental oxygen situationally at high altitudes. One myPHteam member shared that they fly with oxygen and use a portable travel oxygen concentrator when their saturation drops.

Talking to your doctor well in advance is really important here. They can:

- Evaluate whether you need supplemental oxygen specifically for this trip
- Possibly arrange an altitude test to assess your oxygen needs
- Write a prescription, which is required for oxygen therapy
- Adjust any medications if needed for travel Regarding flying with a portable oxygen concentrator — yes, smaller portable concentrators are generally permitted on airplanes, which makes them a great travel option. Just be sure to carry enough batteries to last the entire flight.

For insurance coverage, oxygen therapy is generally covered by Medicare, but it's worth checking with your insurance provider about which specific devices and systems they cover before purchasing.

Here are a few portable oxygen options to discuss with your doctor:

- Portable oxygen concentrators — Lightweight, can be worn on your back or wheeled, and are airplane-friendly
- Ambulatory oxygen equipment — Under 10 pounds, designed to be carried by the user
- Liquid oxygen tanks — Compact but can be expensive and may not be available everywhere

Given how remote your destination is, bringing backup supplies and carrying your medical documents and doctor's contact information is strongly recommended. Have a wonderful trip!

September 3

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Bangor, MI

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