The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a treatable condition-specific program intended to help guide identified adults towards better management of their COPD through general education, symptom management, improvement of modifiable risk factors, medication adherence, and medical intervention to enhance the current treatment plan.
Many people use portable oxygen when they travel. If you already use supplemental oxygen on a regular basis, a portable system helps you continue your oxygen therapy when you are away from home. Even if you do not normally use supplemental oxygen, you may need it on airplane flights or when you go to places with a high altitude such as mountains.
Altitude refers to how far you are above sea level. Altitude affects the amount of pressure in the air. At sea level, there is more pressure in the air. This lets your lungs take in oxygen more easily. There is less air pressure the higher you go.
Commercial airlines keep cabin pressure at a level that allows most people to breathe comfortably. However, depending on your overall health and any health conditions you may have, this level may not be enough to meet your needs.
In the same way, if you travel to a place at high altitude, your need for extra oxygen may increase.
You are more likely to need portable oxygen at high altitudes if you have a condition that causes low oxygen levels in your blood. Examples include emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension.
Plan ahead. This is important no matter where you go or how you plan to get there. Give yourself plenty of time.
Weeks to months before you travel, take these steps:
There are many resources to help you plan a trip with portable oxygen. A travel agent may be able to help you compare rules of different airlines, cruise lines and other carriers.
Some travel agents and companies specialize in helping people who travel with oxygen. They can work with your carrier to get and submit needed forms, give required notices and assist with other steps you must take. They also may work with your oxygen supplier to set up oxygen during your trip.
If your carrier requires you to submit forms, your care team may help you fill them out. But remember, it is your job to get and submit any required forms. And it is up to you make the arrangements for the oxygen system and supplies you need.
Your health care team wants you to have a safe and enjoyable trip. Team members can give you support and help answer your questions.