Becoming a pilot with Asthma
#1
New Hire
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Joined APC: Feb 2018
Posts: 6
Becoming a pilot with Asthma
Hello, my name is Sebastian, I'm currently looking at a career as an airline pilot.
I am concerned over the fact I have asthma, my asthma is not bad, I have not been hospitalised within the last 6 years. I also very rarely take the blue ventolin inhaler for immediate relief from symptoms.
However, everyday I take 0.3 milligrammes of Symbicort via inhaler. Symbicort is a preventive drug which is supposed to stop symptoms developing.
Could someone please let me know if they have any experience with becoming a pilot with Asthma, or if you think my asthma or the inhalers I take will affect my ability to become one.
I am concerned over the fact I have asthma, my asthma is not bad, I have not been hospitalised within the last 6 years. I also very rarely take the blue ventolin inhaler for immediate relief from symptoms.
However, everyday I take 0.3 milligrammes of Symbicort via inhaler. Symbicort is a preventive drug which is supposed to stop symptoms developing.
Could someone please let me know if they have any experience with becoming a pilot with Asthma, or if you think my asthma or the inhalers I take will affect my ability to become one.
#3
New Hire
Thread Starter
Joined APC: Feb 2018
Posts: 6
The thing I'm most concerned about the medication I take, do you know if there is restrictions are certain medications ?
#4
https://www.aviationmedicine.com/
#5
New Hire
Thread Starter
Joined APC: Feb 2018
Posts: 6
Yes there are. The FAA keeps the official list a secret, but some folks have compiled unofficial lists.
https://www.aviationmedicine.com/
https://www.aviationmedicine.com/
#7
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Dec 2008
Position: B737 CA
Posts: 302
If you take more than one "control" medication daily, you will most likely end up with a special issuance (ask me how I know) that requires an annual PFT/spirometry test. I've been flying for 20 years commercially with it. Now that I am down to one control med, it is a non issue. Just be careful that the meds you take are on the approved list. If not, you may have to switch.
#8
Line Holder
Joined APC: Nov 2012
Posts: 28
There is a form called FAA Asthma Worksheet. You can google it. Take this form to the doctor who is treating you for Asthma. Make sure you get a Pulmonary Function test and get the results. Take all that paperwork with you to your AME.
I have allergy induced Asthma and have a Dulera inhaler as well as Montelukast/Singulair for seasonal allergies.
I have allergy induced Asthma and have a Dulera inhaler as well as Montelukast/Singulair for seasonal allergies.
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