Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyCOPDTeam
Powered By
Real members of MyCOPDTeam 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.

COPD And High Altitude

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Forest Park, IL

Has anyone had major difficulties when you are visiting someplace that has high altitude. I was in NM last week and had a major breathing problem with the high altitude as well as adema in my ankles. Had to go to the ER.

September 25, 2016
•
View reactions
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Thanks Ray. My future plan is to visit only places with low altitude. That way I will not have a problem.

November 15, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

@A MyCOPDTeam Member, hello, where I live the elevation is about 3300 feet, I don't have a lot of problems with that as its what I'm used to. My doctor has recommended when I go to Denver, make sure I have portable oxygen tanks, turn flow up to 3 or 4 when I'm up an about. This helps tremendously, still have to do everything slow but at least I can go places. Higher elevations, if we aren't used to it, can cause lots of breathing problems. Good luck.

October 11, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Hey Robert, Hello from Alhambra Ca......yeah , I had the same issue with the high alt. 3 days in Santa Fe.....used rescue inhaler a lot, only helped so much....take it easy.!!!

September 27, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

know your problems were on the ground, but that should be your warning that you probably need O2 to fly as well. Check with your doc. here is a test the High Altitude Simulation Test, that your doc can order for you.

September 26, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Pretty typical of people with COPD. You probably needed supplementary O2 for altitude, even if you don't use it at home. If you fly, your experience should lead you to fly with O2. Remember that planes are only pressurized to 6000 to 8000 feet, so if you need O2 at altitude, you'll need it for flying as well.

September 25, 2016

Related content

View All

Flying And Going To High Altitudes With COPD - Do You Use Oxygen?

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Daytona Beach, FL

Me Again Asking How Much It Would Affect My 02 To Drive Over The Siskiyous Where The Peak Is Over 7K Ft.

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Manteca, CA

High Altitude

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Camborne, UK
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in