Systemic arterial hypertension and flight

Abstract

Hypertension is the major preventable cause of cardiovascular disease and all-cause death. Given its overall high prevalence, hypertension would be one of our major concerns in commercial flights. Hence, the management of hypertension is of great importance. Herein, we discuss the pathophysiological factors for elevated blood pressure during flight, and we make recommendations which should be followed by the passengers and the flight crew and the physicians for trouble-free air travel.