My name is Melinda Johnson and I suffered with foot pain for many years. I went to see a podiatrist and after an examination, I was told that I had heel spur syndrome. I followed the recommendations of my doctor by doing at home treatments along with physical therapy. I was amazed at how much these treatments helped my foot pain. Living with pain can have a big impact on your life and that's why I started this blog. My foot pain kept me from doing many things that I enjoy and I want to help others who are going through the same situation. As you browse through my blog, you'll learn about home treatments, medical procedures and new advancements in medicine that can help reduce pain. It is my hope that by writing this blog, you can live pain free too.
Loving My Pain Free Life
What You Should Know Before Flying With An Oxygen Concentrator
Claire Roberts
If you're on a portable oxygen concentrator and you're getting ready to travel by airplane, you should understand that your airline may require you to bring a statement from your physician in order to bring your concentrator on the plane. Some airlines have a specific form for your doctor to fill out. Others require a letter written on the doctor's formal letterhead. No matter what you need to provide, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some tips for minimizing your security issues and ensuring that your trip is a success.
What Goes in the Written Letter?
It's easy to know what airlines need when they supply you with a form. If, on the other hand, the airline wants a letter from your doctor, it's important that it covers all of the basic information. Here are some of the things your doctor should include:
- A thorough description of your oxygen needs: The letter should explain if you need the oxygen at all times while on board the plane or only during certain situations. If there are specific conditions that require oxygen, they should be clearly defined. It should also include a clear description of the oxygen flow rate you'll need while in flight.
- A statement about warning lights and your response: Your doctor should explain the warning signals of your concentrator and provide details about your ability to hear, see and respond to those warnings. He or she must be able to confirm that you're able to understand and respond to those warnings without extra help.
Does the Concentrator Affect Your Seating?
You may have your seat moved when you notify the airline that you'll be bringing an oxygen concentrator. The flight crew may move you out of an exit row or place you in a seat where you can easily stow the concentrator somewhere with the alarm lights visible. You may find that placing it under the seat in front of you is easiest.
Will You Be Able to Power the Concentrator?
Most airline carriers have limited, if any, electrical outlets available in the passenger area of the airplane. Instead, the airline will ask that you bring sufficient batteries to power the concentrator for the entire flight plus several hours of extra time. This allows for the taxi, gate, takeoff and landing times without any concerns. You'll also want to make sure that you have extra batteries in case of delays.
Pack the batteries carefully in your carry-on. The terminals must be taped or otherwise covered so that they don't come in contact with anything else in your bag. Remember that the concentrator and batteries are classified as medical devices. They'll have to be screened when you go through security, but they aren't considered carry-ons according to the airline.
For more information on what you need to consider as you travel with a concentrator, talk to an equipment supplier such as Corner Home Medical.
Share