Unususal medical condition.

[ALR]

Hi, we are going to Florida in September. The thing is, I have a bit of an unusual medical condition, and I'm wondering what exactly I should tell the staff onboard our flight.

I'm fully covered by my medical insurance, and have declared that I have asthma and low blood pressure.

The thing is that my blood pressure is often abnormally low, and drops without warning, an example of this is when it dropped to 77/22.

I don't want to cause any undue alarm for anyone, but at the same time, I feel that they should be informed.

I am ex BA cabin crew and my advice is to tell the whole truth about your condition!! You won't be alarming the crew who have dealt with all manner of medical emergencies.

If you need any medical attention on board and the crew have been fully briefed they will be better able to care for you.

Many people don't realise how extensive the medical training is for cabin crew, they have yearly exams both written and practical and are licenced to administer POM (Prescription Only Medication) drugs, they are very well trained and practiced in CPR etc, etc, etc too.

[blott]

I would have thought that the best thing to do is to make sure that everyone who is travelling in your group knows about your condition and any medication that you're taking and that you get a letter from your doctor explaining this in writing. That way, in the unlikely event that you are taken ill on board your flight, someone can give details to first aiders so that they're aware of your diagnosis.

I'd also make sure that you bring to the attention of the senior member of the cabin staff when you board your flight that you have this condition and that your companions have all the relevant info about it.

[SunLover]

100% agree with Lucy & Blott.

Once everyone is aware of the situation, you can relax and enjoy your flight, knowing you are in safe hands.

[LiesaAnna]

i know i would tell those concerned you never know when you may just need their help!!!

(hopefully not)

[RIS]

I think that the Doctors letter is very important. Make sure that it not only describes your condition but also states clearly that you are fit to fly. It will save any last minute hiccups![msnwink]

[steph_goodrum]

I would fully agree with the others but would also add that it may be best for you to write down
a) what symptoms are likely to present if it does fall abnormally low and
b) what treatment is recommended in the event it should happen.

I would have thought your doctor would give you something in writing if you cannot put it into words yourslef.

The mian reasons for suggesting this are that if you tell the crew you have this condition then they may assume that any symptom you present is a result of this, when in fact it could be caused by something else (not to worry you but as an example heart attack or dvt) and if you have fallen unconscious cannot tell them that it is different to usual, obviously the correct treatment is essential and if that is to do nothing as your medication will ensure that the problem rights itself or that you need an extra dose or something else , that is what they need to know.

[domster]

I agree with all the above. make people aware and if something happens they can deal with it quickly and effectivly.

I would also tell close friends what to do if something happens.

[sundowner]

Be sure to carry your doctors letter with you at ALL times during your trip, then sit back, relax and enjoy !!

[steph_goodrum]

ALR

Just out of curiosity, what does happen if your blood pressure drops low suddenly, does it make you dizzy, faint or something else?

I know I'm being nosey but if you don't ask you never learn anything.