In some cases, the vitreous gel can peel the retina away from the back of the eye, resulting in a macular hole or retinal tear. This can progress into a retinal detachment if left untreated. Injury or trauma Very occasionally, an injury to the eye or trauma can result in a retinal detachment.
Breathing at higher altitudes might be especially difficult if you have COPD as well as another condition, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes. Being exposed to high-altitude conditions for more than several days can also affect the heart and kidneys.
As noted, pilots can fly around weather to avoid thunderstorm-related turbulence, but another kind, called Clear Air Turbulence, can hit from out of the blue, said our pilot. Statistics show the few who get hurt during this or any severe turbulence are almost always passengers who are not secured in seats.