As international travel increases during the summer holidays, RAK Hospital is advising travelers, especially those with chronic health conditions, to consult their doctors prior to embarking on long flights. This advice follows a recent emergency case where a male patient developed a pulmonary embolism (PE), a serious blood clot in the lungs, shortly after returning from an 8-hour flight from the UK.

The patient presented to RAK Hospital’s Emergency Department with persistent right-sided chest pain lasting three days. A CT pulmonary angiography confirmed he had acute pulmonary embolism, leading to his admission to the ICU for monitoring and treatment with anticoagulants. Fortunately, he stabilized and has since recovered, but his case highlights the health risks linked to prolonged immobility during air travel.

Dr. Suha Alsheikh Suleman, a Specialist Pulmonologist at RAK Hospital, explained that pulmonary embolism often starts as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a blood clot forms in the leg and can travel to the lungs. He noted that long-haul flights, which require passengers to remain seated for long periods, significantly heighten this risk, particularly for individuals who are obese, pregnant, or have heart or lung conditions, clotting disorders, or a history of thrombosis.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical care if they experience symptoms such as chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, coughing (sometimes with blood), rapid heartbeat, leg pain, redness or swelling, or lightheadedness after flying. These symptoms could indicate pulmonary embolism, a serious condition that blocks blood flow to the lungs and can lead to severe complications or death if untreated.

Dr. Suha emphasized the importance of recognizing symptoms early, stating, “If ignored, pulmonary embolism can result in lung damage, heart strain, or even sudden death. Recognizing symptoms early and acting quickly can be lifesaving.”

To ensure safety during flights, RAK Hospital recommends that high-risk individuals take specific precautions before traveling long distances. These include consulting a physician for “fit-to-fly” clearance, moving frequently during flights, staying hydrated, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding sudden temperature changes that can increase the risk of dehydration and blood clotting.

Dr. Suha reiterated the necessity of medical consultations for patients with known risk factors, noting, “A simple check-up can prevent serious in-flight or post-flight complications.” The patient involved in the recent case has been discharged in stable condition and prescribed blood-thinning medication for the next three months.

RAK Hospital is dedicated to preventive healthcare and encourages all travelers to prioritize their health as they make summer travel plans, particularly when flying long distances. For further information or to arrange a pre-travel consultation, visit www.rakhospital.com.