Travel and health

Anything that gets you out, that gets you physically active, is going to be good psychotherapy and stave off winter problems.

~ Jon Karkauer

We spent five hours on a flight to Antigua yesterday. There were no delays.

Healing my lungs has been my priority over the past month, so I had reservations about air travel.

But my husband was very excited about this trip. Given the harsh winter conditions at home, we have spent little time outdoors.

My concerns about flying, including environmental impact, low oxygen levels at high altitudes, exposure to respiratory viruses, and aerotoxic syndrome, were somewhat mitigated as I considered the benefits of downtime outdoors in the warmth and sunshine.

Before taking off, I measured my oxygen saturation levels (SpO2), which were normal, at 98%. A couple of hours into the flight, they dropped to under 92% at times.

Oxygen saturation levels during flight typically decrease due to cabin pressurization, which simulates an altitude of up to 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).

At this altitude, the oxygen concentration drops from 21% at sea level to approximately 15%, leading to lower oxygen saturation levels in the tissue of passengers.

Healthy people do tend to experience a mild drop in oxygen saturation, typically from a baseline of roughly 97% to around 93% during cruising altitude.

This is generally well-tolerated, although some may feel mild fatigue or sleepiness. I slept a lot during our morning flight. It is unusual for me to feel drowsy during the day, unless I am sick or at a higher altitude.

Those with lung disease (e.g., COPD, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension) are at higher risk of adverse health effects. A resting saturation below 92% on room air indicates a high risk of hypoxia (oxygen deficiency in tissue) during flight and usually requires supplemental oxygen.

It is wise to consider the pros and cons of travel, including the environmental impact, which many of us who can afford to fly ignore.