Sunday, August 14, 2011

#AskDrKK: Can a patient with respiratory infection fly?

#DrKKAnswers:


1. Active or contagious respiratory infections (eg, TB, Pneumonia) are a contraindication to air travel, until there is objective evidence of effective treatment (ie, negative cultures) and the patient is clinically stable.
2. A sore throat, upper respiratory infection, cold, can cause blockage of the Eustachian tube making it difficult to equilibrate the air pressure in the middle ear during descent. This can lead to a number of problems including pain, vertigo, and tympanic membrane rupture.
3. Patients with sore throat who cannot avoid flying may benefit from an oral decongestant
(pseudoephedrine) and a nasal spray containing a vasoconstrictor used 30 minutes before descent.
4. Patients should avoid alcoholic beverages and drink plenty of fluids to ensure hydration and to keep secretions thin and easier to clear.

No comments:

Post a Comment