Since air travel is a standard mode of transportation today, it is no surprise that people with high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) also use airlines to travel. Someone with hypertension may have concerns about their health when flying.

While flying, the human body is at a higher than average altitude. The effects of high altitude may include nausea and headaches. However, the pressurization of airplane cabins usually prevents these uncomfortable side effects.

Flying with high blood pressure is possible if high blood pressure is under control. Nonetheless, anyone with high blood pressure should take the necessary precautions for air travel. Patients with high blood pressure who want to fly may consult a HealthTap doctor for medical advice on how to travel safely.

Does flying affect blood pressure?

Anyone who has had multiple  blood pressure readings higher than 130/80 mmHg may have high blood pressure. According to CDC [1], almost half of Americans have high blood pressure.

People with high blood pressure are at a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. Complications caused by high blood pressure can occur at any altitude. However, studies indicate that individuals residing in areas of higher altitudes, or greater than 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) above sea level, have a greater risk of developing hypertension.

Given that airplanes fly at altitudes of about 30,000 feet (9,000 meters) above sea level, it stands to reason that flying could increase the risk of complications for people with high blood pressure. 

That said, airplane cabins are pressurized, which usually prevents the effects of altitude on the human body.

Apart from hypertension, other health complications may be attributed to higher altitudes and thus flying. These include:

• Low oxygen levels.
• Pulmonary hypertension.
• Higher material pressure.
• An increase in red blood cell concentration and production.

Risks associated with flying with high blood pressure

People who manage their high blood pressure with lifestyle changes or high blood pressure medication do not face increased risks or health problems when flying. But those with severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure face an even greater risk of developing medical complications while flying.

It’s important to note there’s not enough data available to determine whether people with high blood pressure are at increased risk of medical complications from flying. However, a study carried out in 2021 [2] shows that the blood pressure of healthy men increased by 6 percent when taking commercial flights even though they had no prior heart conditions.

Other issues like anxiety, which may occur when flying, may increase blood pressure. Although they are uncommon, medical emergencies do happen on plane flights. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), they occur in 1 of every 600 flights.

Medical emergencies that may occur during flights may include the following:

• Dizziness or syncope.
• Vomiting or nausea.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Seizures.
• Heart problems.

Some of these medical emergencies may be caused by high blood pressure. Additionally, people with high blood pressure are at increased risk [3] of blood clots during flights.

How to fly with high blood pressure

Having high blood pressure should not be something that prevents anyone from living a normal life. People with severe uncontrolled hypertension should consult their doctors before planning any plane trips. Additionally, those who take high blood pressure medication need to ensure they pack them and have them easily accessible on their flights. It’s best to keep all medications in carry on luggage in the cabin when flying, rather than placing them in checked baggage. 

It’s important to drink a lot of water before, during, and after flying. The dry conditions in plane cabins may cause dehydration, which may lead to an increase in blood pressure. 

Other tips that may help people flying with high blood pressure include:

• Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake before and during flights (these two things can lead to dehydration).
• Anyone with high blood pressure needs to consult their doctor or primary healthcare provider before planning air travel or other travel plans.
• Avoid using any decongestants that might trigger an increase in blood pressure.
• Avoid airline food that might contain higher than the recommended amounts of sodium which can lead to a rise in blood pressure, or request a low sodium meal.
• Avoid any sedative medications during the entirety of their flight.
• Always put on comfortable and loose clothing.
• Remember to get up and walk about every 2 hours when flying.
• Perform simple exercises, even when seated, to improve blood circulation.
• Wear appropriate socks and footwear.
• Notify the flight attendants and crew immediately if they start experiencing any symptoms or have concerns.

See this graphic below for simple exercises anyone can do while flying to prevent blood clots in the legs (also known as deep vein thrombosis or DVT)

Final thoughts

Although flying should be safe for most people, there are considerations for people with high blood pressure. It’s best to ensure anyone with high blood pressure has it well under control before planning any flights.

In addition to the tips above, travel insurance cover is essential. People with hypertension should ensure the insurance provider covers any conditions or complications related to high blood pressure before taking any flights. It’s also important to remember to bring your medications and stay hydrated during your trip.

If you are considering flying with high blood pressure, contact HealthTap to get medical advice from a doctor on managing your condition to prevent any problems.