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Can people with vestibular issues fly?

Obstacles like rapid altitude changes, visual disturbances, patterned airport carpets, and passive motion can amplify symptoms. Many people with vestibular dysfunction need accommodations or restrictions to prevent symptoms, attacks, or flare-ups. Having a vestibular disorder should not prevent someone from traveling.



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Obstacles like rapid altitude changes, visual disturbances, patterned airport carpets, and passive motion can amplify symptoms. Many people with vestibular dysfunction need accommodations or restrictions to prevent symptoms, attacks, or flare-ups. Having a vestibular disorder should not prevent someone from traveling.

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Flying with labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis or any ear infection isn't ideal. The changes in air pressure, and changes in motion and lighting can make you feel worse. It doesn't mean you definitely can't travel, but it may be uncomfortable.

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These moving platforms change the way the vestibular system is being stimulated, may cause a change in visual input or create a conflict between visual and vestibular input. That is why the experience may induce or increase existing discomfort.

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There is a constant change of pressure in your inner ear as you travel up and down in elevation, whether you're on land, in the ocean, or in the air. This relationship can be thrown off and cause dizziness or vertigo in those with pressure-related vestibular disorders.

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That said, many common ailments get worse when travelling at high altitudes. A headache, stomachache, or even an inner ear infection will likely feel worse up in the air due to changes in pressure, especially considering that an average flight is 10,000km up in the sky.

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A lack of oxygen, combined with airplane cabin pressure, can make some passengers feel as though they're sitting on a cliff at 8,000 feet and can lead to an in-flight fainting spell. It's a scary situation for passengers and crew.

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What are the symptoms of vestibular balance disorders?
  • Dizziness.
  • Feeling off-balance.
  • Feeling as if you are floating or as if the world is spinning.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Disorientation.
  • Falling or stumbling.


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Dramamine is an over-the-counter preventative drug that can help with motion sickness while flying.

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