Should I wear a sleeve when flying for prevention?

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tea
tea Member Posts: 21
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

Hi -

I don't have lymphedema and according to my LE specialist physical therapist I have a very low risk of getting it (one node removed, no radiation).  However I do have some general weakness in the arm on the side of my mastectomy and since it's summer, my fingers are swelling a bit too (they did this pre-cancer as well).  I'm wondering if I should get a sleeve to wear for a trip I'm taking at the end of August.  I've flown on shorter flights (around 3-4 hours) without any trouble, but this will be overseas so it will be 8 + 3 hours.  The physical therapist said it's up to me, but I can't decide if it's a good idea.  Thoughts?

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  • mrsnjband
    mrsnjband Member Posts: 1,409
    edited July 2011

    I was told that I should always wear one when flying or in high altitudes. I think I would get one & wear it as a precaution.  I've also heard to put it on a least one hour before the flight & until one hour after the flight.  

    I would recommend if you do get one to start wearing it a couple hours a day to get used to it.  This would help you learn how to put it on & how to take it off. I'm sure others will have other suggestions.  NJ 

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