A Terrifying Experience on a Long-Haul Flight

Emily, a 33-year-old content creator from Canada, recently shared her alarming near-death experience during a long-haul flight from Toronto to Dubai. After ten hours of sitting on the plane, she attempted to stand for the first time, only to feel suddenly unwell before collapsing.

Symptoms and Immediate Reactions

In her TikTok video, Emily recounted how she initially felt a “deep, dull, aching” sensation in her chest, which was followed by a few coughs before she lost consciousness. Upon regaining awareness several minutes later, she experienced severe sweating and violent vomiting, along with significant bruising from her fall.

Medical Diagnosis and the Dangers of Prolonged Sitting

After receiving care onboard, Emily underwent comprehensive testing upon arrival in Dubai, where doctors diagnosed her with a saddle pulmonary embolism—a critical blood clot blocking blood flow to both of her lungs. This medical emergency was exacerbated by the extended period of inactivity combined with her use of hormonal birth control.

“It’s essentially a miracle that I’m still alive,” Emily stated. She emphasizes the importance of alerting others about the grave risks associated with staying seated for long durations, particularly during flights.

What is Saddle Pulmonary Embolism?

A saddle pulmonary embolism occurs when a significant blood clot obstructs the bifurcation of the pulmonary artery, preventing adequate blood flow to the lungs. This condition often arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can occur due to prolonged sitting, alongside surgeries or certain medical conditions. Elevated estrogen levels, due to pregnancy or contraceptive use, further increase the likelihood of such complications.

Prevention and Recommendations

Individuals at risk for blood clots should take preventative measures seriously. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises:

• Walking as soon as possible after surgery, illness, or injury.
• Consulting a healthcare provider about using compression stockings or medications to minimize clotting risks.
• Standing up or moving around every 1 to 2 hours during long periods of sitting, such as flights.
• Wearing loose clothing and exercising the legs frequently.