The February COPA Flight 6 meeting was a
presentation by Dr. Jonathan Wallace and a review of
the Canadian Aviation Medical Examiners Regulations
(CAME). Jonathan touched on the most common health
problems people encounter: heart attacks and strokes.
These two health issues are of greatest concern to
pilots who are concerned about retaining their licence
or have been grounded for a period of time.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting ample rest,
sticking to a proper diet, and generally looking
after yourself will help. Obesity is a major factor in
contributing to both heart and stroke issues. Should
you think you are experiencing a heart attack,
immediately take an aspirin. In the first hour, this can
help to lessen the severity. Always seek professional
medical assistance ASAP. A stroke may be caused
by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the leaking
or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). If
you think you are experiencing symptoms of stroke,
the F.A.S.T. signs and symptoms of stroke are Face
drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty. After
that, it is then Time to call 911. Other symptoms and
signs include confusion, weakness or paralysis on
one side of the body, double vision, and speech and
comprehension difficulties.
Jonathan also talked about cancer. Cancer is a catch-all
word as it encompasses many types. There are three
types of treatment for cancer: cut out, chemotherapy,
and radiation. Regarding flying an airplane when you
have cancer, with all types of treatment, it is best to
consult with an aviation medical doctor as they know
best the rules and regulations which may or may not
result in grounding your ability to keep flying when
treating cancer and all types of medical issues.
Next, blood pressure was discussed. Your ideal blood
pressure should be 120 over 80 (this is your resting
blood pressure) and less than 140 over 90. If you
experience higher numbers during your annual pilot
physical, wait some time as you might be anxious of the
test or maybe you just ran or biked to the examination.
Finally, be cautious if you're thinking of having laser eye
surgery as it can result in complications, especially with
night flying.
In closing, COPA Flight 6 would like to thank Dr.
Wallace for his presentation and Dr. Walter Salmaniw
(Dr. Salmaniw is a current CAME) for attending the
meeting and adding additional advice.