January 2022 | Navigator Travel Insurance

Flying with vertigo can be uncomfortable. This condition can make a person feel like the surrounding is moving or spinning, and whilst it is barely noticeable most of the time, it can sometimes get so severe that you won’t be able to keep your balance and carry out ordinary tasks, including travelling.

In case you’re wondering if it’s safe to travel on a plane with vertigo, here’s what you need to know.

If you suffer from a condition like vertigo and want to ensure that any plane journey is protected in the case of a medical emergency, you can purchase comprehensive insurance from Navigator Travel UK. Get in touch to find out more about the insurance policies we offer.

What is Vertigo?

Contrary to what many people think, vertigo is not a condition. Instead, it is a symptom caused by varying conditions. If you have vertigo, it will give you a sensation that your surroundings are spinning in circles, making you feel dizzy and off-balance.

Vertigo can make a person feel dizzy, and you will feel like you are spinning even if you are not. The symptom can occur due to various reasons, although the most common cause has something to do with a problem in the inner ear.

Does Flying Affect Vertigo?

Depending on the severity of the symptom, flying with vertigo is possible. It can make you feel uncomfortable and unbalanced, but there are things you can do to minimize discomfort. Make sure you come to the airport early, so you will have plenty of time to rest before taking your flight.

Some people may find that their vertigo gets worse due to a sensory overload, which can occur if your brain is receiving too much information at once. Overloading your senses with too many stimuli could exacerbate your vertigo and trigger other symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Sensory overload can happen on an aeroplane during take-off, turbulence or landing when there is a lot of noise, combined with the physical sensation of going up or down very fast.

Can You Fly If You Have Vertigo?

Dealing with vertigo while flying can be tough, but it is possible. Sometimes, travelling on a plane can be very stressful, and if you’re stressed, your vertigo may get worse. If you get very anxious whilst flying then you should take steps to manage this stress to manage your symptoms the best you can.

If your vertigo symptoms are particularly bad, it may be a good idea to cancel or rearrange your flight.

But if you feel like you can handle vertigo on the plane, make sure you plan your trip well. Bring any necessary medication with you and ask your doctor if there are any additional treatments you can take to control your symptoms.

Tips to Help Flying with Vertigo

If you suffer from vertigo and need to fly soon, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Try and minimise having to rush when you are at the airport, as moving quickly can make vertigo symptoms worse
If you experience a worsening of your vertigo on the plane, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the flight attendants
Take steps to ensure your stress levels are low before and during the flight
Consider buying travel insurance. If you get ill or have to delay your flight due to a vertigo attack, your insurance can cover your medical costs and ensure that you don’t lose money rebooking your journey