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Anxiety over upcoming flight/mild copd

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Posted 2/1/2015 4:28 AM (GMT 0)
First, I apologize for double posting. I know we are not to do that, but I could not find a place for COPD question and I have been in this forum chat before!

I am flying out this week and have a fear issue. I was doing fine and a few days ago developed a sinus infection, I do have wheezing at times but Doctor said airways were clear.

Anyhow, 3 years ago after landing from a delayed and then 4 hour flight I was not feeling well. Flash forward and 2 days later I went to ER with extreme shortness of breath. They said I had a COPD exacerbation and CT showed pneumonia. Never before had anything like this happened to me and I had no idea I had COPD.
A few months later I did go to a pulmonary Doctor and had the tests done and he said mild to moderate COPD. I've been on Inhaler since. I have not had any more Exacerbation episodes.

I have also flown several times since then without issues. Yet I am scared to take this flight coming up!!!! Yes, I also have anxiety issues. Mostly because I have the sinus infection and some wheezing (on meds) and my mind is filled with all the 'what if's' ..... I am going to the same place that I was last time when the episode happened. I am flying alone as I was before. I was fine and quite looking forward to my upcoming visit until NOW!

I'm rambling....should I be concerned about flying and copd? Should I be concerned because of the sinus infection/slight wheezing right now (even though I have seen the doctor)? Am I being paranoid? (Yes..already know that answer!) Should say that my pulse/ox is usually 97 or 98. Took it today and it was between 95 and 97 and yet I feel like I am not taking full breaths all the time.

Back to question! Should I just put these fears on the back burner and board that plane and soar away..........or let the fears take over (and still go).

If anyone has been in the copd and flying predicament....would love to hear how you handled all.

So...anyone here that can share with me?

Thanks,
Abby
Posted 2/1/2015 5:21 AM (GMT 0)
You will love this, i have a fear of flying and i am an x paratrooper, lol the only issue i have is if the flight
takes more than two hours i take an aspirin on take off, and another upon landing, just for safety reasons,
If you are going to go, put the fear down and enjoy the trip, Peace

Larry ***
Posted 2/1/2015 7:46 AM (GMT 0)
you will be fine. adopt my new mantra that is on my signature:
'just do it'. as larry said, you will happy once you have.
Posted 2/1/2015 2:41 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you Both! I am definitely going, just need to 'let it go' and try not to let the 'what if' take over. Just a bad timing to get this sinus infection and such..........and Larry...you did give me a chuckle over the ex-paratrooper! Guess this stuff happens to all types!
Thanks,
Abby
Posted 2/2/2015 7:22 AM (GMT 0)
glad to hear it.
Posted 2/2/2015 7:25 PM (GMT 0)
Hi GM.,

As long as your doctor has cleared you to go, and you have your meds to keep you clear with your sinuses and breathing...

...then I say, use your coping skills and have a wonderful trip!

Are you going somewhere fun? Trying to focus on your adventure and/or the loves ones you will be seeing should help.

Can you take along some relaxation/meditative material (C.D.'s or an app for your phone) to focus on during your flight? This could really help to keep you calm.

Wishing you the best...let us know how it goes, alright?

S.C.
Posted 2/2/2015 7:35 PM (GMT 0)
Looking forward to hearing all about how wonderful your trip went. You will do awesome! Yay you!
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