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Can you fly with high cholesterol?

Make sure that your doctor gives the OK for you to travel and there should be no reason why having high cholesterol should stop you enjoying your time away. If you will be away from home for several weeks or months you may need an extra supply of medication, so your doctor will be able to help you with this too.



Generally, yes, you can fly with high cholesterol as the condition itself does not pose an immediate risk during air travel. However, the primary concern for travelers with high cholesterol is the increased risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or cardiovascular events due to long periods of inactivity in a pressurized cabin. Medical experts recommend that such passengers stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol, and wear compression stockings if they have other circulatory issues. It is crucial to walk around the cabin every hour or perform "seat exercises" like ankle circles to keep blood flowing. If you are taking medication like statins, ensure you carry them in your hand luggage with a copy of your prescription. While high cholesterol isn't a "no-fly" condition, if it has led to more serious issues like unstable angina or a recent heart attack, you must consult a doctor for a formal "fit to fly" assessment before boarding.

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If you aren't sure whether your medication falls into one of these categories, you should check with your AME:
  • Tranquilizers, such as but not limited to Valium, Librium, Ativan.
  • Most antidepressants. ...
  • Opiates, such as Morphine, Codeine, Lortab, Percodan, Oxycontin.
  • Muscle relaxants, such as Soma, Sonata, Flexeril.


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These include any hormone-based drugs, like the contraceptive pill and some fertility medicines, and drugs used to prevent heart attack and stroke. Antihistamines should also not be used to help passengers sleep during a flight.

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Unstable heart disease is associated with a higher risk of adverse events due to flying, and you may need to avoid flying, at least temporarily, until your condition is well controlled. People with pacemakers or implantable defibrillators can fly safely.

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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

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Bringing medicine to the UK If you're not a UK resident, you will need to carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed for you. The letter must include: your name. the dates you are travelling to or from the UK.

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