Can you fly with a concussion?

Can You Fly With a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that can affect thinking, balance, mood and sleep. If you’re asking “can you fly with a concussion?”, you’re not alone—many travelers and athletes wonder whether air travel could worsen their symptoms or delay recovery. Below, we review what medical experts say, outline potential risks, and offer practical tips to help you make a safer decision.

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What Is a Concussion?

• A concussion occurs when a force to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull.
• Common causes include falls, sports collisions, car accidents and physical assaults.
• Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours to days, and may include:
  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Confusion or “foggy” feeling
  • Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes, irritability or sadness
  • Sleep disturbances

According to the 5th International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport (McCrory et al., 2017), concussion management should be individualized, gradual and symptom-guided.

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Why Flying Might Affect Concussion Recovery

Air travel introduces several factors that can influence concussion symptoms:

1. Changes in Cabin Pressure

   • At cruising altitude, cabin pressure is lower than at sea level.
   • Some passengers feel ear “popping,” mild sinus pain or temporary dizziness.
   • With a concussion, these sensations can aggravate headache, balance issues or nausea.

2. Reduced Oxygen Levels

   • Though aircraft cabins are pressurized, oxygen levels can be slightly lower.
   • Oxygen deprivation may worsen cognitive fog, fatigue or headache.

3. Noise and Vibration

   • Jet engines and airflow create constant low-frequency noise.
   • Vibration from the aircraft can exacerbate head pain or balance problems.

4. Disrupted Sleep and Dehydration

   • Irregular schedules, time zone changes and cabin dryness can hinder sleep and hydration.
   • Both poor sleep and dehydration slow concussion recovery and heighten symptoms.

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When to Delay Your Flight

If you’ve had a concussion within the past 1–2 weeks, consider postponing air travel until you meet all of these criteria:

• You have been cleared by a medical professional for travel.
• You can tolerate routine daily activities (work, school, self-care) without worsening symptoms.
• Headaches, dizziness and nausea are controlled with rest, hydration and minimal medication.
• You are not experiencing any worsening or new neurological symptoms.

Red flags warranting immediate medical attention (and grounding any travel plans):

• Continuous or worsening headache
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures or convulsions
• Weakness, numbness or decreased coordination
• Slurred speech or visible confusion
• Unusual drowsiness or inability to wake up
• Balance problems leading to falls

If any of these occur, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

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Risks of Flying With a Concussion

Even if cleared for travel, flying with a recent concussion carries risks:

• Symptom flare‐up: Headache, nausea or dizziness can worsen due to pressure and stress.
• Delayed recovery: Physical and cognitive rest is crucial; travel-related stressors slow healing.
• In‐flight emergencies: Severe headache or confusion mid‐air can be frightening and challenging to manage.
• Dehydration and fatigue: Airplane cabins are low‐humidity environments; dehydration intensifies concussion symptoms.
• Reduced access to care: If symptoms spike during a flight or upon arrival, immediate medical support may be limited.

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Tips for Flying Safely After a Concussion

If you and your healthcare provider decide it’s safe to fly, follow these strategies to minimize risks:

1. Get Medical Clearance

   • Have a documented note from your doctor stating you’re fit to fly.
   • Share any specific precautions (e.g., need for breaks, medications).

2. Plan for Comfort

   • Choose an aisle seat for easier access to washrooms and stretching breaks.
   • Wear noise-reducing earbuds or a lightweight eye mask to limit sensory overload.
   • Use a good neck pillow to stabilize your head and reduce strain.

3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

   • Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security checks and sip water regularly.
   • Pack light snacks (bananas, nuts, crackers) to maintain blood sugar and avoid nausea.

4. Manage Cabin Pressure Effects

   • Yawn, swallow or chew gum during ascent and descent to equalize ear pressure.
   • Consider using filtered ear plugs designed for flying.

5. Prioritize Rest

   • Keep lights low, close window shades and minimize screen time.
   • If possible, schedule flights at your usual sleep time, but avoid sleeping pills unless prescribed.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms

   • Track headache intensity, dizziness and other signs in a simple notebook or app.
   • If symptoms worsen significantly, alert a flight attendant and request medical advice at the next gate.

7. Have a Post-Flight Plan

   • Arrange rest time upon arrival: avoid meetings, tours, or late-night activities.
   • Identify local medical facilities at your destination in case of emergency.

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Free Online Symptom Check

You might consider doing a free, online symptom check for to get personalized guidance before traveling.

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When to Speak to a Doctor

While many people recover from concussion within 7–10 days, some require weeks or months for full healing. Always follow these guidelines:

• Speak to a doctor if you have any life-threatening or serious symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider before making major travel decisions.
• Keep emergency contacts and medical records handy when flying.

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Bottom Line:
Can you fly with a concussion? Yes, but only if you’ve been medically cleared, your symptoms are stable or improving, and you take steps to minimize pressure changes, noise, dehydration and stress. When in doubt, delay travel and prioritize recovery. Always reach out to a healthcare professional with any concerning or severe symptoms—safety comes first.