Traveling with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) may take a bit of extra planning, but living with this type of pulmonary hypertension doesn’t necessarily mean giving up your travel dreams. With good preparation and support, many people with PAH continue to explore and enjoy new experiences.

“Life is short, and the world is wide! Gotta travel as much as possible while we still can,” one myPHteam member shared. Another said, “I’m planning my 75th birthday trip to Europe. Making plans is such fun. I did purchase travel insurance just in case.”

Keep reading to learn how PAH treatment can affect travel. We’ll also share practical tips for staying safe and comfortable on the go and explain why talking to your healthcare provider is an essential step in planning any adventure.

Can You Travel While on PAH Treatments?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including how you plan to travel, where you’re going, and whether you have other medical conditions in addition to PAH. Your healthcare provider is the best person to guide you, but here are some ways PAH and its treatments can affect your travel plans.

Oxygen Levels

People with pulmonary arterial hypertension have high blood pressure in the lungs caused by narrowed blood vessels. This slows blood flow between the heart and lungs, making it harder for the body to get the oxygen it needs. As a result, people with PAH may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, edema (swelling), dizziness, fainting, and chest pain. These symptoms can become worse during air travel or when visiting high-altitude destinations, such as mountain towns or ski resorts.

At high altitudes, there is less oxygen in the air. So, the body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. For people with PAH, who may already struggle to get enough oxygen, extra support may be necessary at high altitudes to keep oxygen saturation (blood oxygen levels) within a safe range. Hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels) can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening. A healthcare professional familiar with PAH treatments can help you get supplemental oxygen if you need it for travel.

“I have idiopathic PAH, and I fly with oxygen,” shared a member of myPHteam. “I have a portable travel oxygen concentrator that I use when flying.”

“I have a portable travel oxygen concentrator that I use when flying.”
— A myPHteam member

Other Health Problems

Blood clots are another potential concern. Sitting for long hours in a car, train, or plane is a risk factor for blood clots. Air travel can also cause swelling of the feet and legs, which is already a known issue for people with PAH. Some people wear compression socks to improve circulation and help prevent swelling during air travel and at high altitudes.

Check in with your doctor if you’ve had a recent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. They may suggest you delay air travel after one of these events.

Logistical Challenges

Traveling during PAH treatment can also introduce logistical challenges. Changing time zones can affect your medication schedule. You’ll need to carry extra medications and supplies, plan for oxygen therapy if needed, and create an emergency plan with your doctor so you and your loved ones know what to do if your symptoms get worse.

Practical Tips for Traveling With PAH

Despite the challenges, travel with PAH is possible. If exploring new places is important for your quality of life, don’t let these obstacles stop you. With careful planning, the right support, and some practical tips, many people with PAH continue to travel safely and comfortably.

Here are some practical tips for traveling with PAH:

• Bring extra medication, copies of prescriptions, oxygen orders, and any other relevant medical documents. Pack medications and important paperwork in your carry-on bag or purse so they’re always accessible.
• If you need oxygen for your trip, make sure you know how to use it. Carry backup supplies, including enough batteries to last the entire flight.
• Carry a card listing your PAH diagnosis, emergency contact information, and doctor’s contact information.
• Reach out to airlines, hotels, cruise ships, and transportation services in advance to arrange for wheelchairs, oxygen, and any other special requests. Check airport and airline policies on supplemental oxygen and medical equipment to avoid last-minute surprises.
• Allow yourself a rest day if you’re feeling tired or short of breath. Your loved ones can explore while you recharge.
• Walk around or perform calf exercises to stay mobile and prevent blood clots on a long flight.
• Get the recommended vaccines for conditions like flu and pneumonia early enough to protect yourself while traveling, with your doctor’s approval.

While traveling, be sure to continue other healthy practices that you do at home:

• Stay hydrated and limit your alcohol intake.
• Avoid activities that can lower your blood pressure, like sitting in a hot tub or sauna.
• Learn how to recognize early signs of worsening PAH symptoms, and seek immediate medical attention if needed.
• Exercise and remain active according to your doctor’s recommendations.

For additional travel tips, join a PAH support group or post questions on myPHteam to learn what works for others. Discuss any advice you receive with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for you.

Consult a PAH Specialist

Before heading out on your adventure, consult a PAH specialist. If you’re planning to travel by plane or head to a high-altitude location, your healthcare provider may recommend an oxygen stress test (also called a hypoxic challenge test or hypoxia altitude simulation test) first to see how your body responds to lower oxygen levels.

“I’m getting ready for my first airplane trip since I was diagnosed with PAH,” shared a myPHteam member. “I did an altitude test and found that I will need oxygen for the plane.”

Along with evaluating your fitness for travel, a PAH specialist can adjust your PAH medications if needed. Some people with PAH only need supplemental oxygen in certain situations, like for air travel or when staying at high altitudes. Others may need diuretics during travel if they’re prone to swelling of the legs and feet. Your healthcare provider can discuss your treatment options and make sure you have the medications and supplies you need to stay safe and comfortable.

It’s also important to make your doctor aware of your travel plans in case of an emergency. They can help you create an emergency treatment plan in advance so you and your caregivers know what to do if your symptoms flare while on vacation. They can also help if you end up in a hospital without a PAH specialist. Working with the local team, your doctor can guide your care from afar.

Make your doctor aware of your travel plans in case of an emergency.

If you have the travel bug, a little extra planning may be all you need to keep exploring. But it’s also OK to decide that the extra effort isn’t worth it. Everyone’s comfort level is different.

“I stopped flying after my diagnosis, but that was my personal choice,” a myPHteam member said. “I’m opting for comfort and security. Many people with PAH still travel happily, even with oxygen therapy.”

Join the Conversation

On myPHteam, people share their experiences with pulmonary hypertension, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Have you traveled with PAH? What advice do you have for others wanting to travel? Let them know in the comments below.